Today - 29/06/2009

Presented by Evan Davis and James Naughtie. Keith Vaz, chairman of the Commons Home Affairs Committee, discusses a report by MPs on the policing of the G20 demonstrations in London. Former NHS trust chairman Roy Lilley and YouGov president Peter Kellner discuss a new government legislative programme that claims to offer more choice for users of public services. Rajesh Mirchandani reports on the controversy surrounding the pop star Michael Jackson's death. Middle East editor Jeremy Bowen gives his analysis of where internal Iranian politics and the UK's relationship with the country currently stand. Is the policy of removing US and UK troops from Iraqi cities helping to bring stability to the country? Jack Izzard reports on what has happened in Basra since the British forces left. New York Times journalist Rod Nordland discusses his findings after investigating the US pullout in the city of Fallujah. James Naughtie visits Westminster Abbey to find out what proposed structural changes would mean for the historic building. Thought for the day with Rabbi Lionel Blue. Business secretary Lord Mandelson outlines the proposed changes to public services being launched under the title Building Britain's Future, which may lead to a delay in the sale of part of Royal Mail. Jeanette Ervine, widow of unionist leader David Ervine, Rev Chris Hudson, who has acted as a conduit between the UVF and the Irish government, and Independent journalist David McKittrick discuss the importance of Loyalist paramilitary decommissioning. Rowan Pelling, former editor of the Erotic Review, and writer Philip Hensher discuss whether there is still a place in the modern world for love letters. Political editor Nick Robinson analyses whether the issue of spending will overshadow what the government want to say about public service reform. Ben Page, chief executive of Ipsos Mori, and Jonathan Porritt, chairman of the UK Sustainable Development Commission, discuss concerns raised by the Royal Society that not enough is being done to combat climate change. Keith Best, chief executive of the Immigration Advisory Council, discusses government proposals to give local residents a higher priority on council house waiting lists. Author Alastair Reynolds and Professor Adam Roberts discuss how space opera is different from other sci-fi genres. Dr Laleh Khalili of the School of Oriental and African Studies at London University discusses Britain's difficult relationship with Iran following the election.