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Episode details

Radio 4,27 Sep 2026,44 mins

Jehovah’s Witnesses blood u-turn, billionaire ethics, Laurence Olivier’s vicar father

Sunday

Available for over a year

For decades Jehovah's Witnesses have refused blood transfusions on religious grounds. That policy has now changed. Members may now decide for themselves whether to accept or donate red or white blood cells, plasma and platelets, although the ban on whole blood transfusions remains. Supporters say the move reflects a refined understanding of scripture, while critics argue it raises difficult questions about those who suffered or died under the previous policy. Many of the word’s big tech bosses joined President Trump and China's Xi Jinping for the White House state dinner this week. A clear signal for many that billionaires are at the top table, influencing politics. They have extraordinary wealth and power, but what should their responsibility be to the rest of society? Nick Hanauer has just shy of a billion from a career in business. He explains why he's committed to giving half of it away. Laurence Oliver was one of the greatest actors of his generation. This month marks 35 years since his ashes were interred in Poet’s Corner in Westminster Abbey. New research has now come to light about the huge influence of his vicar father on his career. Presenter: Emily Buchanan Producers: Dan Tierney and Liberty Phelan Editor: Chloe Walker.

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