The Rest Is Politics

14 Aug 2025

437. Question Time: Farage vs Corbyn: The UK’s Next Prime Minister?

Is Starmer too afraid to take on Farage? What does Germany’s turn away from Israel signal? And, how much should kids know about geopolitics? 

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

11 Aug 2025

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? How would Thatcher have dealt with Trump? 

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

331. Question Time: Murdoch or Musk — who has more power?

Why does the UK ignore Irish politics? Should Labour implement Leveson 2, and what should your 7 year-old ask a Tory MP, according to Alastair?Join Rory and Alastair as they answer all these ... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: Why I’m obsessed with litter

You’re lucky to get a few seconds between spotting roadside refuse when driving in Britain. Tackling this is an easy win for the government... Continue

330. The US Election: One week to go

With one week to go until the US election, what media outlets can you trust? Is Australia immune to the populist wave that seems to be sweeping Europe? What do the elections in Austria and Ge... Continue

104. Timothy Snyder: How will the US election result impact Ukraine?

What can European history teach us about the potential outcome of conflicts around the world? What effect will the results of the US election have on Ukraine? Will America always be a democra... Continue

329. Question Time: Technology, privacy, and the battle for the NHS

Will disability benefits ever be means tested? Could cross party collaboration fix the national health crisis? And how are Alastair and Rory staying humble post-tour?Join Rory and Alastair as... Continue

328. Could Russia interfere in the US election?

Will the killing of the Hamas leader change the course of the war in Gaza? What is Labour’s plan for the NHS? Could Elon Musk be found guilty of buying votes? Join Rory and Alastair as they... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: Life on the road with The Rest is Politics

We asked our listeners at the 02 whether Kemi Badenoch or Robert Jenrick should be the next Tory leader. The response was bleak for both candidates... Continue

103. Archbishop of Canterbury: Faith, mental health, and the future of the Church

What does the Archbishop of Canterbury suggest for bridging divides in conflict zones? What are the Church doing about declining spirituality? How was it leading the country through the death... Continue