The Rest Is Politics 435. Question Time: The Migrant Return Plan, Colombia’s Drug Cartels, and Will Rory Join Corbyn’s New Party?
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Aug 6, 2025 In an engaging Q&A format, pressing topics like the migrant return plan and Colombia's drug trade take center stage. The podcast dives into the complexities of Colombia’s peace agreements amidst challenges from drug cartels. There’s also a thought-provoking discussion on whether AI could replace vital mental health support services. Additionally, the conversation touches on transitioning Britain's clean energy infrastructure and rising environmental extremism, revealing the multifaceted struggles within climate policy today.
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UK-France Migrant Deal Insight
- The UK-France "one in, one out" migrant deal aims to send Channel boats back to France, a safe country.
- This plan focuses on balancing asylum seeker intake and securing Europe's cooperation.
Colombia's Macarena Guerrilla Area
- Rory Stewart visited Colombia's Macarena, a region once controlled by guerrilla groups with extensive coca production.
- He witnessed guerrilla-built infrastructure and the complex legacy of drug trade and armed conflict.
Unintended Consequences in Colombia's Drug Policy
- Colombia's suspension of herbicide use and paying farmers to avoid coca ironically increased coca cultivation.
- These policies unintentionally doubled coca crops during Santos' presidency.