Today - 14/08/2008

Presented by James Naughtie and Edward Stourton. Including: Former Georgian President Eduard Shevardnadze and Michael Davey of the European Bank discuss the threat to Georgia's prosperity posed by the conflict with Russia. Former chief inspector of schools Mike Tomlinson discusses the introduction of a new system of vocational diplomas. John Curtice, Professor of Politics at Strathclyde University, discusses why the by-election in Glenrothes could be another electoral disaster for Gordon Brown. Colin Blane reports on efforts to re-establish sea eagle chicks in the east of Scotland. Andrew Hosken reports on police officers who are allegedly arresting minor offenders to meet targets. Georgians regard their Russian neighbours with suspicion, but do Russians feel the same way about the Georgians? Caroline Wyatt reports from Moscow. Reuters bureau chief Alistair Macdonald and Israeli Government spokesman Mark Regev discuss the investigation into the killing of a cameraman on the Gaza Strip. US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice is on her way to Georgia. US special envoy Matthew Bryza and Georgian minister Temur Iakobashvili discuss the decisions to be made. Author and collector Maurice Collins discusses an exhibition of labour-saving devices. Schools minister Jim Knight and Conservative spokesman Michael Gove discuss whether diplomas will enhance education. The violence which sparked the Georgian conflict broke out initially in the South Ossetian capital of Tskhinvali. Sarah Rainsford reports from the town, having been allowed access by the Russian military. Author Rob Eastaway is on a mission to change the UK's aversion to maths.