Former Prime Minister Theresa May is set to guest edit BBC Radio 4's Today programme on New Year's Eve, focusing on issues of trust in politics, domestic violence, and modern slavery. May, who resigned in 2019, will explore how abuse of power has eroded democratic institutions, referencing disasters such as Hillsborough and Grenfell Tower.
The guest editor slot is part of the programme's festive tradition, which this year also includes Oscar-winning actor Cate Blanchett, AI entrepreneur Mustafa Suleyman, and others. Blanchett's edition on 27 December will examine the impact of artificial intelligence on women in the film industry, as well as sustainability in fashion, the refugee crisis, and gardening.
Suleyman, who will edit on 29 December, will counter Blanchett's scepticism about AI by discussing superintelligence and ensuring technology serves humanity. Other guest editors include broadcaster Melvyn Bragg, historian Tom Holland, and inventor Sir James Dyson.
Today editor Owenna Griffiths expressed gratitude to the guest editors, stating they bring 'new stories, fresh ideas, and a sprinkling of joy' to the programme.
