Today - 14/08/2009

Presented by Evan Davis and Edward Stourton. Anne Main MP has survived an attempt to deselect her following criticism over her Commons expenses. Iain Watson reports. Correspondent Natalia Antelava reports on hopes that Iraqi government negotiations with Asa'ib al-Haq or the Leagues of the Righteous, could help facilitate the release of hostage Peter Moore, who they claim to be holding. Gibril Faal, chairman of the African Foundation for Development, discusses the intentions of the Obama administration in Africa. Home Affairs Correspondent Rory MacLean went to Portsmouth with Home Office minister Admiral Lord West to see the Air Launch Running Gear Entanglement System being put through its paces. Farming Minister Jim Fitzpatrick explains why he walked out of a marriage ceremony in his East London constituency when he and his wife found out they would have to sit in different rooms. US businesswoman Emily Walker describes how the British health service is viewed by some on the other side of the Atlantic. Meteorites collector Rob Elliot explains what he hopes to do with the proceeds of the sale of part of his collection. Professor Steve Field, chairman of the Royal College of GPs, discusses the logistical challenge of vaccinating some 14 million people in an attempt to minimise the damage caused by swine flu. Thought for the Day with John Bell of the Iona Community. Writer Robert Fox discusses the next phase in the Afghan conflict. David Grossman reports from Washington on the abuse being heaped on the NHS by opponents of President Obama's health care reforms. Conservative health spokesman Andrew Lansley discusses MEP Daniel Hannan's comments. Jon Leyne reports on allegations of rape and torture of protestors following the election in Iran. Les Paul, one of the pioneers of the electric guitar, has died at the age of 94. Music broadcaster Bob Harris examines the legacy of the influential musician and guitar maker. Tim Montgomerie, of website conservativehome.com, discusses whether anger over the MPs' expenses issue is starting to abate. Andy Ward, author of Football Nation, and Hunter Davies, author of the Glory Game, discuss whether, with so many foreign players, managers and owners involved in the game, it can still be described as an English league. Ibrahim Mogra, an Imam from Leicester, explains the rules governing weddings held in a mosque. Sports psychologist Dr Victor Thompson and Liberal Democrat and ballroom dancer Vince Cable discuss whether dancing could benefit all of us. Executive director of the Arts Council Moira Sinclair and shortlisted artist John Cockrum discuss the Artists Taking the Lead project.