The Rest Is Politics

12 Nov 2026

588. Is Britain Prepared for Cyber Warfare and The ‘Plot’ to Undermine the UN

As supermarket fridges are hacked and bomb threats are called in, how is AI accelerating the rate of cyberattacks, and can Britain’s defences keep up? Who is in the running to become the next UN Secretary-General, and what will the appointment mean for the future of the organisation and the international order? Following the ANC’s worst-ever performance in South Africa’s local elections, has corruption finally caught up with the ruling party, and can it tackle the country's deepening unemployment crisis?

Two men who’ve been at the heart of the political world – former Downing Street Director of Communications and Strategy Alastair Campbell and cabinet minister Rory Stewart – join forces from across the political divide.

Leading

9 Nov 2026

214. What Can The UK Learn From How South Africa Ended Apartheid? (Paul van Zyl)

How can politicians rebuild trust after decades of division? How do you get political enemies to sit down at the same table? What are some of Nelson Mandela's best - and funniest - moments?

Every Monday, Rory and Alastair interrogate, converse with, and interview some of the world’s biggest names – from both inside and outside of politics – about life, leadership, or leading the way in their chosen field.

Latest

549. Mamdani’s Wrecking Ball and the Rise of Anti-Migrant Vigilantes

Is Zohran Mamdani becoming much more than a mayor and effectively running a shadow presidential campaign through the candidates he's backing? How significant is Australia’s new centrist party and co... Continue

548. Burnham vs. Westminster and Trump’s Next Target

Will Andy Burnham’s plan for a ‘Number 10 North’ actually work in practice? What does Rory make of Burnham’s growth strategy? Who is Donald Trump’s next target in Latin America? Join Rory an... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: We are living in the age of climate unreality

The charlatans who said we had nothing to fear from Brexit now make the same claim about the world getting hotter... Continue

195. Can the West Reclaim its Power from Trump? (Malcolm Turnbull)

As Western nations become increasingly dependent on the US for AI, satellite infrastructure, and defence, are they sacrificing sovereignty in exchange for American security? Can middle powers such as ... Continue

547. The Truth About Russian Oil, Net Zero, and North Sea Drilling

With the UK and Europe sweltering in yet another record-breaking heatwave, will we ever actually reach net zero? How close are we to a “lights out” scenario due to the Iran war, and how did we bec... Continue

In a world of chancers and charlatans, we need facts at our fingertips

Get a FREE signed copy of A history of Brexit: in 256 disasters when you subscribe to The New World... Continue

546. Keir Starmer Resigns: What Happens Next?

What does Keir’s Starmer’s exit as Prime Minister and leader of the Labour party mean for the UK? After his thumping victory against Reform UK last week, will Andy Burnham face a contest or a coro... Continue

Burnham must learn the lessons of Starmer’s failure – and they start with Brexit

Be optimistic, don’t ignore the party and find new ways to cut through lies and disinformation... Continue