Hello and welcome to the Intelligence from the Economist. I'm your host, Orette Oganby.

Every weekday we provide a fresh perspective on the events shaping your world.

Backed up cases and backed up toilets, Britain's courts are falling apart and their collapse is having real consequences for the country's justice system.

And have you thought about what you'd like to happen with your body after you die?

Would you like to be buried, cremated maybe?

Most people stick with the traditional options, but there is an increasingly popular third choice. That's a bit more...erfie.

But first...

This week, American government employees said goodbye to TikTok. Well, on their work phones at least.

As of Tuesday, the app was banned on all federal devices. Echoing moves from Canada, Britain and the European Union to do the same.

Last week, American lawmakers grilled TikTok's Chief Executive, Shouzichu, at a House Committee hearing.

I don't know if it's a personal police.

I just like to respectfully read all mine. I would like to start by saying it's never stating to hear about the news of the government.

Yes or no, I'll repeat the question.

We do take these issues very seriously. Yes or no.

And we do provide resources for anyone who types in anything that suits us.

TikTok has been facing renewed scrutiny recently, in large part due to its relationship with the Chinese government.

Officials are worried about the risks of misinformation and the manipulation and surveillance of millions of Americans using the app.

But as politicians decide what to do about those risks, something unusual is happening.

TikTok is often seen as a lens into China.

Alexander Switchbass is the economist Senior Correspondent for Politics, Technology and Society.

But it's also a lens into America itself, an American politics.

There's big national security concerns that have emerged.

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