17 Apr 2026
523. The Starmer-Mandelson Scandal: Lying or Incompetence?Can Starmer survive if it emerges he was previously told about Mandelson's failed vetting? Is he developing a pattern of blaming others when things go wrong? Will this lead Labour MPs to start questioning their leader ahead of crucial local elections?
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.
9 Apr 2026
184. President of Ukraine: Volodymyr ZelenskyyAt a time when the United States is threatening to withdraw from NATO, how can Europe maximise its power to deter Russia's threat? If Vladimir Putin were given the territory Donald Trump offered in his peace plan, what would his next move be? Why does the White House keep misunderstanding Putin’s real war aims?
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.
158. Baroness Hale: The Supreme Court, Boris Johnson, and the ECHR
How did it feel to take on then Prime Minister Boris Johnson when Baroness Hale ruled his suspension of Parliament "unlawful"? Why does the Trump administration present such a threat to the i... Continue
A Deal With the Devil? Murdoch and New Labour (Part 2)
What was the nature of Rupert Murdoch's relationship with Margaret Thatcher? What led to News Corp's near-collapse in the late 1980s, and how did the company recover? Why and how did Tony Bla... Continue
459. Question Time: Reform’s Potential Upside, Why Bad News Sells & Reasons To Stay Hopeful
Who’s offering hope in politics today? Where are the real environmental success stories? And what one law would Rory and Alastair make a reality? Join Rory and Alastair as they answer all ... Continue
459. Question Time: Reform’s Potential Upside, Why Bad News Sells & Reasons To Stay Hopeful
Who’s offering hope in politics today? Where are the real environmental success stories? And what one law would Rory and Alastair make a reality? Join Rory and Alastair as they answer all ... Continue
Alastair Campbell’s diary: Why Trump should never be given the Nobel peace prize
Peace is not just about bombs falling silent, but the humanity that goes into maintaining it... Continue
458. Can Trump’s Peace Deal Actually Work?
Has Trump really brought a “new dawn” to the Middle East? How can one of the most broken places on earth begin to be rebuilt? And is Argentina mourning the death of a libertarian dream? ... Continue
157. Ukraine, Diplomacy, and the Future of Europe (Dmytro Kuleba)
What is the current position of Ukraine in the Ukraine-Russia war? How delicate is diplomacy with Europe and with the US for the Ukrainian government? What are the differences between working... Continue
The Rise of Rupert Murdoch: Making of a Mogul (Part 1)
Why is Rupert Murdoch considered such an influential figure? What was his childhood and family like growing up in Australia? How did he establish his groundbreaking media presence in the UK? ... Continue