The Metropolitan Police is facing a £260million funding shortfall, prompting sweeping cuts across the force. 1,700 jobs are at risk, including officers, PCSOs and support staff. London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has pledged to protect frontline response units and increase funding from City Hall, but public trust and service levels could be under pressure.

The London Standard’s crime editor Anthony France joins us to explain how the Met’s finances reached this crisis point, which units are most vulnerable, and what it all means for policing in London.

Plus, Hollywood star Val Kilmer has died aged 65. From Top Gun’s Iceman to Batman and Heat, we reflect on his iconic screen moments and lasting legacy with The London Standard’s celebrity correspondent Lisa McLoughlin.

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A three day hearing has commenced at London’s High Court as pupils, their parents and a collection of independent and faith schools appeal against Labour’s policy to impose VAT on school fees.

In this episode, Tristan Kirk, the Court Correspondent for The Standard outlines who is bringing the challenge, explains why the hearing has been fast-tracked, and sets out the potential implications of a successful verdict.

Plus, Sony Pictures has finally announced the cast for its biopic on The Beatles and the Standard’s Head of Culture, Martin Robinson, is here to give his views on the ambitious project and how the casting choices might be key to attracting new generations to the story of one of the biggest influences in British music.

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Prime Minister Keir Starmer has opened a major summit on illegal migration, bringing together officials from over 40 countries at Lancaster House in London.

In this episode we hear from The Standard’s Chief Political Correspondent Rachael Burford about Labour’s strategy to crack down on people smuggling and the role of social media in tackling online exploitation.

Plus, as London prepares to open the £2.2 billion Silvertown Tunnel, we hear from Transport for London’s David Rowe and The Standard’s City Hall and Transport Editor Ross Lydall on what the new river crossing means for commuters, congestion, and tolls.

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