Today - 29/01/2009

Presented by John Humphrys and Edward Stourton. Chair of the Public Accounts Committee Edward Leigh says literacy and numeracy targets will not be reached. Simon Cox examines how lawyers are making money from ransom negotiations. Tim Franks visits some residents of the Gaza Strip who have started the process of reconstruction. Prof Sara Arber explains how sleep restriction can damage health. Barnardo's chief executive Martin Narey explains his view that the current preference for keeping families together is putting vulnerable children in danger. Graham Satchell interviews Jane Rabagliati of the Deer Initiative about whether a cull is a necessary evil. Evan Davis reports from the World Economic Forum and asks whether the meeting can help 'reshape the post-crisis world'. Thought for the day with the writer Rhidian Brook. Stephen Chittenden speaks to teens in Cambridge about their attitude to alcohol and England's chief medical officer Sir Liam Donaldson explains why guidelines have become necessary. Skills Secretary John Denham and English teacher Phil Beadle discuss targets for literacy and numeracy. Chris Morris reports on UN concerns that a humanitarian crisis is taking place in Sri Lanka. Benjamin Zander, conductor of the Boston Philharmonic, talks to Evan Davis about his attempt to lift the mood at the World Economic Forum. Sarah Campbell examines the problems surrounding a new academy in Carlisle. Karen Allen reports on the troops completing 'unfinished business' in Eastern Congo. Evan Davis speaks to Stephen Roach, Chairman of Morgan Stanley's Asia operations, about whether China will help the West in the financial crisis. Prof John Curtis, of the British Museum, says stupidity caused the destruction of Babylon.