Today - 24/01/2009

Presented by Sarah Montague and Edward Stourton. Mark Simpson explains plans to pay compensation to the families of all those killed in Northern Ireland's Troubles. Iain Watson discusses President Obama's first phone call to Gordon Brown. Yesterday in Parliament with Mark D'Arcy. Former MP Tony Benn explains why he will attend a protest against the BBC's decision not to broadcast an appeal for aid for the people of Gaza. Paddy Ashdown fears the lives of young people on the front line are being wasted because the government has no plan for Afghanistan. Jack Izzard visits Lewes, where locally-produced banknotes have become part of everyday life. Thought for the day with the Rev Bob Marshall. Tom Feilden and stem cell expert Chris Mason discuss the decision by US regulators to allow stem cell clinical trials. Former Northern Ireland First Minister Lord Trimble discusses the proposals to pay compensation to the families of all those killed in Northern Ireland's Troubles. Former newspaper editors Charles Moore and Kelvin Mackenzie discuss the return of Jonathan Ross after his 12-week suspension from the BBC. President Obama has asked the Pentagon to plan for 'a responsible military drawdown from Iraq.' Jonny Dymond examines how the changes have been felt in Baghdad. Banker Sir George Cox and journalist Alex Brummer discuss if the men in charge of the banks are responsible for the downturn. International Development Secretary Douglas Alexander discusses the BBC's decision not to broadcast an appeal for aid for the people of Gaza. Chris Morris reflects on the slums of Mumbai as depicted in the film Slumdog Millionaire. Handel experts Tatty Theo and Dr David Vickers discuss if recently discovered cantatas can be credited to Handel.