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

Alastair Campbell’s Diary: Brexit forever changed Irish politics

It is hard to overestimate the damage the combination of Brexit, Johnson and Truss has done ... Continue

193. What makes the Tory right so powerful?

Why do the ERG and the right wing of the Tory party hold so much power over their leadership? Could a universal basic income work? How often do Rory and Alastair think about the Roman Empire?... Continue

192. What David Cameron’s return means for Israel-Gaza

What does David Cameron's appointment as Foreign Secretary mean for the UK's policy towards Israel and Palestine? What happened at the pro-Palestinian and against antisemitism marches? Has pr... Continue

Introducing… Legacy

Everyone leaves a legacy. In their new podcast series, produced by Goalhanger & Wondery, Afua Hirsch and Peter Frankopan tell the wild stories of some of the most extraordinary men and w... Continue

191. Braverman sacked and Cameron returns

The emergency pod button has been pushed as David Cameron returns to politics and Suella Braverman has been sacked.TRIP Plus: Become a member of The Rest Is Politics Plus to support the podc... Continue

45. Dr Comfort Ero: Resolving deadly conflicts & reforming the UN

How important is the role of the international community in resolving conflict? Is peace possible in the Middle East? How relevant is the United Nations today?Rory and Alastair are joined by ... Continue

45. Dr Comfort Ero: Resolving deadly conflicts & reforming the UN

How important is the role of the international community in resolving conflict? Is peace possible in the Middle East? How relevant is the United Nations today?Rory and Alastair are joined by ... Continue

190. Question Time: Should WhatsApp messages stay private?

What makes Parliament the most poisonous place to work? Should MPs listen to their SpAds? Was the Freedom of Information Act a mistake?Join Alastair and Rory as they answer all these question... Continue