Broadcasting House Folgen

We get the latest on the prime minister's future from Henry Zeffman - as business secretary Peter Kyle tells the BBC that Keir Starmer is 'reflecting on political reality'. Dame Mary Beard draws parallels between the politicians of today and those of the classical world, and we get advice on political instability from Italian journalist Beppe Severgnini. Also, we mark the moment of the summer solstice with Scotland's astronomer royal, Professor Catherine Heymans; Frank Gardner talks about rare butterflies, and we review the papers with journalists Joey D'Urso and Stephen Bush, and TV presenter Kirstie Allsopp.

Royal Marine Commandos fast rope onto a Russian shadow fleet oil tanker in the English Channel. Scotland win their first World Cup match in 36 years. Radio 4 favourites Mark Steel, Sian Williams, Deborah Meadon and Giles Brandreth describe their secret holiday spots. Lemn Sissay returns to his childhood stomping ground Makerfield, who's by election is this week. On the news review Neil McIntosh, Cathy Newman and Alexander Dragonetti. Reverend Brian Anderson reflects on a traumatic week in Belfast. The Femmes De La Mer sing a sea shanty to mark the Falmouth sea shanty festival.

MPs warn the hold-up on a plan for defence spending is harming relations with the UK's allies, as the Prime Minister prepares to host European allies in Downing Street. Plus: the death of the proper football anthem is mourned by Keith Allen, the man behind several classics. Rachel Burden presents.