The Rest Is Politics

13 Feb 2026

The Battle for the Arctic

One of the most important political issues of our time - the battle for the Arctic. Why is Russia so dominant there? Why does Trump really want Greenland? And why is Climate Change right at the heart of this?Join Alastair and author Kenneth R. Rosen in the first episode of our new members-only miniseries on the battle for geopolitical control of the icy north, the polar war.

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 Feb 2026

175. Ex-Director of GCHQ: China, Russia, and the Threats Facing the UK (Jeremy Fleming)

Do Russia or China represent a bigger risk to UK national security? Why are we underestimating the threat posed by cybercriminals? Who holds the real power - ministers or spies?

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

361. Gaza, Israel, and Ceasefire

How can Gaza be rebuilt after any ceasefire is agreed? What are the ‘six deadly sins’ of the liberal centre? What should we make of Starmer’s AI action plan for Britain?Join Rory and Al... Continue

116. Is AI the answer to human suffering? (James Manyika)

How can AI help solve global problems such as poverty, hunger, and disease? Is there a hidden dark side to this new technology? What is in store for the future of artificial intelligence?Rory... Continue

360. Question Time: Assad’s People – Torture, Justice, and Forgiveness

Are the media ignoring what’s happening in Gaza? Should the UK be boycotting the cricket in Afghanistan? And, how worried should we be about democratic backsliding in Georgia and Venezuela?... Continue

360. Question Time: Assad’s People – Syria, Torture, and Justice

Are the media ignoring what’s happening in Gaza? Should the UK be boycotting the cricket in Afghanistan? And, how worried should we be about democratic backsliding in Georgia and Venezuela?... Continue

359. Starmer vs. Musk: Why the richest man in the world turned against the Prime Minister

What's behind Musk's spiral into the far right? Is Robert Jenrick veering into Enoch Powell territory? Is Austria on the precipice of a new form of fascism?Join Rory and Alastair as they answ... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: The cost of Elon Musk’s dangerous lies

The ranting billionaire embarrassed himself, Donald trump... and Nigel Farage. Now he has to pay the price... Continue

115. Ben Wallace: Britain’s mistake in Ukraine, Trump vs. NATO, and visiting Iran with Jeremy Corbyn

Why do some soldiers make bad politicians? What's the West doing wrong in terms of its policy towards the Ukraine War? How can Keir Starmer turn around the public perception of his Labour gov... Continue

358. Question Time: Political translators, Boris Johnson, and politicians to watch in 2025

What are Rory and Alastair's funny translation stories? Could Boris Johnson ever have a comeback? And are there any politicians to watch out for in 2025?Join Rory and Alastair as they answer... Continue