11 Sep 2025
448. Question Time: Mandelson’s Epstein Disgrace, Kirk’s Assassination, and Trump’s Illegal Boat StrikeWhy did Peter Mandelson become so mesmerised by the rich and famous? What does Charlie Kirk’s assassination mean for the future of American politics? Is Trump trying to start a fake war with Venezuela?
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.
8 Sep 2025
152. “A War on Children”: A Generation in Gaza at Risk (James Elder)Why is the humanitarian situation in Gaza the worst that James Elder has ever seen? What does the process of rebuilding Gaza look like? How do the people working on the ground not lose hope?
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.
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
327. Question Time: What does peace look like in the Middle East?
What is the point of the House of Lords today? Does Elon Musk have presidential ambitions? How bad do Downing Street comms have to get before Alastair steps in?Join Rory and Alastair as they ... Continue
326. Labour’s first 100 days, the Tory leadership race, and Japan
How have the first 100 days of the new Labour government gone? Who will be the next leader of the Tory party? What is happening in Japanese politics right now?Join Rory and Alastair as they a... Continue
102. Alan Johnson: From Blair to Starmer – What can Labour learn? (Part 2)
How does militant socialism compare to Corbynism? How did Labour’s ‘remain’ campaign go so wrong? And what should Labour be doing about immigration? On today’s episode of Leading, Ro... Continue
325. Question Time: Are the Tories dead or sleeping?
How many civilian casualties is too many: what defines a proportionate war? What makes a good civil servant according to Alastair and Rory. And, why should children learn how to disagree agre... Continue
324. Israel at War: One Year On
How has the political landscape of the Middle East changed in the year since Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel? Why has Keir Starmer reshuffled his top team? Is “the grid” still ... Continue