The Rest Is Politics

17 Dec 2025

479. Russian Influence in Britain: How Exposed Are We?

Why are Britain’s top military and intelligence chiefs sounding the alarm about Putin’s influence and future plans? How deeply has Russia already penetrated British politics, media, and public debate – and why did it take so long for us to act? If Europe is serious about sustaining Ukraine, why is it still struggling to unlock Russia’s frozen assets?

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

15 Dec 2025

166. John Swinney: An Independent Scotland Is An Open Scotland

What is the future of the Scottish independence movement? How does the SNP rebuild trust and support for independence after a series of bruising scandals? Why did the Scottish First Minister feel disrespected by a series of Conservative Prime Ministers? 

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

436. Is Trump Gifting Ukraine to Putin?

Have Zelensky and Europe lost all leverage over Trump and Putin? What’s behind Vance’s ‘odd relationship’ with UK foreign secretary David Lammy? Why does Rory think Starmer’s terror... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: What cricket tells us about life

Americans may have Apple, Amazon and the lead in the AI race, but Donald Trump is killing their soft power... Continue

The Gun Lobby Responsible for Trump: Journey Through Time

Alastair is joined by historian and co-host of Goalhanger’s Journey Through Time, Sarah Churchwell, to discuss their new series on the History of The National Rifle Association.  How did ... Continue

147. I Thought It Was a Prank – Then I Was Chancellor: Jeremy Hunt (Part 2)

What was it like to be handed the reins to the economy following the Liz Truss mini-budget collapse? How did Jeremy Hunt feel fighting an election that he knew the Conservatives would lose? H... Continue

435. Question Time: The Migrant Return Plan, Colombia’s Drug Cartels, and Will Rory Join Corbyn’s New Party?

Can Starmer’s deal with Macron really fix the Channel crisis? Is Colombia’s fragile peace falling apart amid a booming drug trade? And, could AI replace mental health support lines?  Jo... Continue

434. Why the West is Finally Recognising Palestine

Why are the UK, France and Canada finally recognising a Palestinian state? Why is Trump punishing Brazil, India, and Switzerland with tariffs? Should Starmer’s Labour be less cautious and m... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: Trump isn’t World King, he’s a narcissist

The president's trip to Scotland proves there's a real harm in not holding his actions to account... Continue

146. The Rise and Fall of The Conservative Party: Jeremy Hunt (Part 1)

How did Jeremy Hunt lose the Conservative leadership race to Boris Johnson? What does the longest serving Health Minister think will fix the NHS? What does Jeremy Hunt really think of Kemi ... Continue