30/10/2015

With violence escalating in recent weeks between Israelis and Palestinians, the conflict is once again high on the news agenda. Coverage of the story is always scrutinised strongly and this week we'll hear from listeners who allege biased reporting about both sides. But can such a long-running and complex conflict be fairly covered in a forty second news bulletin? Roger Bolton speaks to Kevin Connolly, the BBC's Middle East Correspondent.

When The Daily Mail's cartoonist Stanley "Mac" McMurtry appeared on Midweek, he discussed the nature of modern satire with Libby Purvis. But during a discussion about political correctness, he used an outdated term to describe ethnic minorities that some consider offensive. Should Libby Purves have stepped in and corrected him on air?

When Erica Jong was invited on to Woman's Hour, many listeners expected a steamy listen. And the author did not disappoint. Presenter Jane Garvey's attempt's to reel it in were in vain, so was it a little too much for a morning during half term? Listeners didn't seem to think so. Roger speaks to Jane Garvey about a truly memorable interview and how you know when you've stepped over the line.

And last week Radio Solent broadcast an item about love in later life, and a lonely 95 year old local man, Bill Palmer, was one of those to call in. Within an hour of the call, Bill was in the studio, speaking directly to Solent's listeners. His story of elderly isolation touched many - it spread online and quickly went global. Roger speaks to Chris Harris, the executive producer on the day, and Chris Osborn, one of those who called in.

Producer: Katherine Godfrey A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.