The Rest Is Politics

25 Jun 2026

547. The Truth About Russian Oil, Net Zero, and North Sea Drilling

With the UK and Europe sweltering in yet another record-breaking heatwave, will we ever actually reach net zero? How close are we to a “lights out” scenario due to the Iran war, and how did we become so dependent on Russian oil? Is North Sea drilling for oil and gas a matter of national security, or an environmentally reckless fantasy?

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

22 Jun 2026

194. Is Putin Losing his Grip on Russia?

With war fatigue growing and polls showing increasing dissatisfaction with life in Russia, is Vladimir Putin beginning to lose control? What is really happening inside Russia today? And what is it like to report the truth from inside one of the world's most repressive states?

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

199. Question Time: Why the infected blood scandal still haunts today’s politics

How uncomfortable are the left with Starmer’s praise of Margaret Thatcher? Does Sunak’s stance on legal migration undermine British universities? What’s next for George Santos?Join Alas... Continue

198. King Charles on the world stage, Argentina’s Brexit, and the real Henry Kissinger

How did King Charles perform at COP? Is Milei more Reagan than Trump? Who was the real Henry Kissinger?Join Rory and Alastair as they answer all this and more on today's episode of The Rest I... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s Diary: Farewell Glenys Kinnock and Alistair Darling

Their passing has marked a sad week for the entire Labour family... Continue

49. Christiana Figueres: COP28, Costa Rica, and surviving the climate crisis

How do countries cooperate to tackle the climate emergency? Is it unusual for the United Nations Climate Change Conference to be held in the oil rich UAE? What does the future hold for renewa... Continue

My friend Alistair Darling

He was a better politician than he ever knew... Continue

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