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

343. What Happens Next: Israel vs. the International Criminal Court

How has the world responded to the International Criminal Court's arrest warrant for top Israeli officials? What does Trump have planned for the war in Ukraine? Is Chancellor Rachel Reeves re... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: The day John Prescott gave a speech to the sea

In paying their tributes, many people are still underestimating the former deputy prime minister... Continue

109. Is it time to legalise assisted dying? (Kim Leadbeater)

Should assisted dying be legalised? How did the murder of her sister, Jo Cox, impact British politics? Why is the job of an MP so difficult?Rory and Alastair are joined by Labour MP Kim Leadb... Continue

John Prescott was a great fighter and a great friend

The public saw his combative side, but those closest to him saw his heart... Continue

342. Question Time: Farmer vs Starmer, courting China, and the purpose of COP

How would Alastair tweak the so-called “tractor-tax” to appease British farmers? Is Kier Starmer spending too much time abroad? And will international law survive Trump?Join Rory and Alas... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: The word I want to get into the dictionary

The ‘trollification’ that happens on X, Elon Musk’s online hellhole, deserves a definition... Continue

341. Biden vs. Trump: A fight for the future of Ukraine

Is Biden’s move on missiles too little too late for Ukraine? Who will be in Donald Trump’s White House team? Why are business leaders growing tired of Labour?Join Rory and Alastair as the... Continue

108. Mhairi Black: Independence, inequality, and the future of the SNP

What was it like entering Parliament as the youngest MP? How has the SNP’s approach to campaigning for Scottish independence changed since the 2014 referendum? What does the future hold for... Continue