527. Are American Tech Billionaires Threatening British Democracy?

This episode of The Rest Is Politics explores the growing concerns over American tech giant Palantir's expanding influence on British governance, particularly its access to sensitive data and its role in defense and healthcare systems. Hosts Rory Stewart and Alistair Campbell debate whether Palantir's US origins and its CEO Alex Karp's controversial techno-fascist manifesto pose a threat to British sovereignty and democratic integrity. They examine the company's claims of data neutrality and efficiency gains, while highlighting fears about dependency on a foreign entity with potential political leverage. The discussion extends to the UK Foreign Office's closure of its international humanitarian law unit, raising questions about the government's commitment to international norms. The hosts also delve into mental health, revealing surprising consensus across political divides—especially among 'rooted patriots' in the red wall—on the need for greater government action. A deep dive into media coverage of the Gaza war reveals systemic bias in Western outlets, with data showing disproportionate focus on Israeli narratives and underreporting of Palestinian casualties. The episode closes with personal reflections on grief, death, and the importance of open dialogue about mortality, underscored by a poignant book recommendation and a lighthearted debate on the height of Serbia's president.