The Standard

After signs of recovery last week, new data is painting a far gloomier picture for the global economy. The London Standard’s business editor Jonathan Prynn explains how Donald Trump’s tariffs are sparking fears of a worldwide recession and what it all means for the UK.Plus, The London Standard’s features writer and columnist Maddy Mussen joins us to discuss the latest Beckham family drama being played out by what is (and isn't) being posted on social media.

With the announcement that the funeral of Pope Francis will take place at the Vatican this Saturday, the London Standard’s Melanie McDonagh joins us to explain some of the customs and traditions which are taking place during this time and explore who could be named as the next pope.And in part two, as Beyoncé’s mum, Tina Knowles, releases her memoir, ‘Matriarch’, what will we learn about the roots of one of music’s most successful artists? The Standard’s Culture and Lifestyle writer, India Block, is here to give us the lowdown.

Although Sharia law councils, often referred to as courts, have no legal jurisdiction within the UK, many people of Muslim faith turn to them for guidance on aspects of their everyday lives.With their number in the capital on the rise, award winning journalist, David James Smith, joins us for an in-depth conversation about his special report for The Standard into how these councils operate and whether they best serve those who turn to them for help.

Astronomers believe they have discovered the strongest evidence yet that life may exist on a planet outside our solar system.A group of scientists, led by the University of Cambridge, have published the results of their study in the Astrophysical Journal Letters.One of the co-authors is Dr Subhajit Sarkar, a lecturer and astrophysicist at Cardiff University, and he joins us to explain more about the planet K2-18b, why the team were looking specifically at that part of space and why he thinks it’s only a matter of time before we can confirm alien life.Plus, with the long Easter weekend upon us, The Standard’s Food and Drink writer, Josh Barrie, is on hand with ideas of what to do and where to go in the capital to keep the family entertained.

UK inflation has dropped to 2.6% - the lowest since December. The fall, driven by cheaper fuel and hotel rates, is being hailed as a sign of economic stability. But is this just a blip or a sign that we’re past the cost of living crisis? The Standard’s Business Editor, Jonathan Prynn, explains what it means for wages, interest rates, and the wider economy.Plus, Arsenal face Real Madrid in tonight’s Champions League quarter final tie later. The Standard’s football writer Simon Collings joins us from Spain with team updates, tactical insight, and what’s at stake as the Gunners chase a semi-final place for the first time since 2009.Remember you can follow all the action live via our live blog at standard.co.uk

Police have been called in to investigate the circumstances surrounding the felling of an ancient oak tree in North London. Reports were made to Enfield Council on the 3rd April that the tree, in Whitewebbs Park, had been damaged, sparking local outrage and immediate concerns by the council. Local business owner and campaigner for woodland protection, Lawrence Thor Stephen, from Thors Trees, joins us to explain the ecological significance of the tree, the impact its felling will have on local wildlife, and the community's response to the incident.  Plus, the American TV network, HBO, has confirmed the names of the actors taking on the iconic roles of Dumbledore, Hagrid and Snape in their forthcoming TV adaptation of the Harry Potter books. The Standard’s Culture writer, Vicky Jessop, is on hand with the latest updates including speculation on who could be cast as He Who Must Not Be Named.