Campbell says politicians must 're-win the argument for democratic politics'

Alastair Campbell has said politicians must "re-win the argument for democratic politics", arguing that democracy is under heavy pressure. He made the remarks to the Guardian's Australian Politics podcast. Campbell is also co-host of The Rest is Politics podcast.

On the podcast, Campbell said the UK political system had been too quick to slide back into overheated rhetoric and polarisation after attacks on MPs. He pointed to the killings of British MPs Jo Cox and David Amess, saying those events had not brought lasting change to political culture.

The podcast discussion came as attention turned to an alleged attack in Australia. Independent MP Helen Haines, the member for Indi, was allegedly targeted in an attack outside her electorate office in northern Victoria. The alleged attack caused her to lose both legs.

A 43-year-old man has been charged over the alleged attack on Haines. Campbell is due to visit Australia for a speaking tour next month.