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

197. Question Time: Should Labour be bolder on Brexit?

Why do politicians avoid discussing the benefits of migration? Do broadcasters allow the agenda do be shaped by the right wing press? What party would Charles Dickens vote for?Join Alastair a... Continue

196. Why are the far-right on the rise?

Should Britain give the Elgin Marbles back to Greece? Will people be financially better off following Hunt's Autumn statement? Why have populists like Javier Milei and Geert Wilders performed... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s Diary: Imagine if Boris Johnson had backed Remain…

Instead he chose the path to No 10 and we are all paying the price... Continue

Introducing… The Rest Is Entertainment

In their new podcast TV maestro and hugely successful author Richard Osman, along with The Guardian's razor-sharp columnist Marina Hyde unravel the mysteries and unveil the hidden gems within... Continue

48. Simon Sebag Montefiore: The impact of conflicting histories in the Israel-Hamas and Russia-Ukraine wars

Is understanding history a means to peace between Israel and Palestine? Has Putin’s obsession with Russia’s imperial history motivated his invasion of Ukraine? Is it possible to dismantle... Continue

47. Tony Klug: Could the Israel-Hamas conflict restart the peace process?

Is peace possible in the Middle East? What is the difference between a one-state solution and a two-state solution? What is the role of the international community in resolving the conflict b... Continue

195. Question Time: Is Sunak’s Rwanda plan doomed to fail?

Why was Sam Altman fired from OpenAI? Would a secret ballot have saved a soft Brexit? What options are left for Rishi Sunak after supreme court’s Rwanda ruling?Join Alastair and Rory as the... Continue

194. Autumn statements, Putin’s progress, and why advertisers are pulling out of X

How does inheritance tax work? How have voters reacted to the ceasefire vote? Are Putin's prospects improving in the Russia-Ukraine war?Join Rory and Alastair as they discuss all this and mor... Continue