Today - 21/10/2008

Presented by Sarah Montague and John Humphrys. Mark Pearson of the OECD discusses the narrowing gap between rich and poor. Jason Burke of the Observer discusses the Taleban's role in the murder of the aid worker Gayle Williams. Sarah Veale of the TUC discusses plans to alter flexible working legislation. Brooks Newmark MP says that the real level of UK debt is three times the figure that has been reported. Chairman of the Arcadia Group Sir Philip Green discusses whether there is an immediate prospect of him buying assets owned by Baugur, the Icelandic owner of a number of high street chains. Professor David Eastwood talks about the significant increases in science students. Thought for the Day with Akhandadhi Das, a Vaishnav Hindu teacher and theologian. Secretary for Innovation, Universities and Skills John Denham discusses his plans to make sure that small enterprises survive and prosper in the current economic downturn. Robert Peston and Nick Robinson report on accusations of discussions between a Russian oligarch and UK political parties. Dr David Halpern of Cambridge University discusses how inequality is being tackled in the UK. Larry Charles, a writer on Seinfeld and Curb Your Enthusiasm, joins former London Editor of Time Magazine Jeff McAlister to discuss political satire. Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg discusses future economic policy. India and Pakistan are allowing some trade across their border in Kashmir for the first time in more than 60 years. Chris Morris reports from Srinagar. Author Robert Harris describes the life of Pat Kavanagh, one of the world's foremost literary agents. How will the prospect of a recession affect what we watch on television? TV critic Andrew Billen and Peter Bazalgette discuss.