THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 82 - Special guest Ann Widdecombe, the possible return of international trains to Kent and flags and red crosses  

In this week's episode: 

Ashford International Train Services:
Dan discusses renewed calls to restore international railway links at Ashford, citing a new Good Growth Foundation report. The return could boost the British economy by £500m annually, but Eurostar’s monopoly and lack of short-term plans mean changes are unlikely before 2026.

Rochester High Street Vehicle Restrictions:
Rob covers Medway Council’s move towards expanding vehicle restrictions using ANPR cameras. While local businesses appreciate increased pedestrianisation, concerns remain about overzealous enforcement and fines.

Kent County Council & Asylum Hotels:
Simon reports on KCC leader Linden Kemkaran urging unity among council leaders following Epping Forest's legal victory against asylum hotels. Responses from local politicians were mixed or noncommittal, highlighting ongoing tensions around migration policy.

Flags & Identity – Operation Raise the Colours:
Nikki explores the surge in Union Jacks and St George’s Crosses across Kent as part of a national trend. While some see it as pride in heritage, others view it as provocative amid debates on immigration and identity.

Former Maidstone MP Ann Widdecombe reflects on:

• Her political journey from Conservative minister to Reform UK spokesperson.
• Why she left the Tories for Brexit Party/Reform UK—frustration with government handling of Brexit.
• Views on Nigel Farage’s leadership qualities and Reform UK's readiness for government.
• Immigration policies including mass deportations; advocates secure reception centres for asylum seekers.
• On controversial issues (gay marriage, abortion): believes these should be conscience votes rather than party whips.
• Addresses risks of extremism within Reform UK—emphasises stringent vetting procedures for candidates.
• Thoughts on Labour's proposed streamlining of local government—prefers focusing on efficiency over reorganisation.
• Life after Parliament: Strictly Come Dancing experience was unplanned but transformative; now motivated by sense of duty to help shape Reform UK's future.

The team debate whether flag displays have become anti-establishment symbols or simply expressions of patriotism:

• Dan notes flags are increasingly seen as novel forms of protest in Britain compared to other countries where flag-flying is routine.
• Nikki feels Brits don’t celebrate their flags enough due to embarrassment or fear their message will be misinterpreted amidst current divisions.
• Rob cautions that deliberate flag displays may aim to provoke reactions suggesting “national shame” over patriotism—a narrative benefiting those seeking division rather than unity.

Have a topic suggestion or question? Email us at [email protected] or send a voice note!

Stay updated via Kent Online Politics Briefing and tune into KMTV’s politics show every Friday at 5pm (KMTV On Demand).

Thanks for listening to the Kent Politics Podcast - don't forget to check out stories throughout the week on the politics pages of KentOnline, and you can watch the Kent Politics Show on KMTV every Friday at 5pm or on demand at www.kmtv.co.uk

Don't forget to look out for more episodes of the Kent Politics Podcast, along with other shows at www.im-listening.co.uk or wherever you listen you your podcasts.

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 81 - Council overspends, local government reorganisation, and special guest Tristan Osborne MP

This episode delivers an in-depth look at political issues affecting Kent, with a special focus on local government finances, education (SEND provision), migration policy, and parliamentary perspectives. This episode also features a detailed interview with Chatham & Aylesford MP Tristan Osborne.

• Thanet District Council: £1.3m overspend on waste/cleaning services due to high staff sickness rates.
• Medway Council Reorganisation: Proposal for four new unitary authorities; boundary changes spark controversy and alternative suggestions.

• Delays to Swanley’s Birchwood SEND school opening (now 2028–29).
• Frustration from Lee Academies Trust & Seven Oaks MP Laura Trott over DfE delays.
• Positive proposals:
  
  • Parkwood Hall Co Op Academy expansion (120 → 192 places).
  • Broomhill Bank expansion (190 → 318 places).

• Reflections on first year as MP—office setup, casework, debates.
• Support for cross-party Blue Badge campaign for time-limited disabilities.
• Analysis of asylum hotel legal rulings; government aims to reduce hotel use (down from 52k to 36k).
• Discusses crime perceptions vs reality; stresses need for better messaging.
• Views on protest legislation—defends peaceful protest but supports prescription of groups based on evidence of criminality.
• Personal growth since entering Parliament; notes challenges faced by MPs today.

Dan: Legal precedent may see more councils blocking hotels; tension likely shifts elsewhere.
Rob: Injunctions shift blame rather than solve root problems; politicians risk fuelling misinformation.
Nikki: Expresses concern about public hostility towards asylum seekers; highlights processing delays as the main issue.

• Next guest: Ann Widdecombe (former Maidstone MP)
• Encouragement to follow Kent Online/KMTV for updates
• Audience invited to send feedback/questions

Thanks for listening to the Kent Politics Podcast - don't forget to check out stories throughout the week on the politics pages of KentOnline, and you can watch the Kent Politics Show on KMTV every Friday at 5pm or on demand at www.kmtv.co.uk

Don't forget to look out for more episodes of the Kent Politics Podcast, along with other shows at www.im-listening.co.uk or wherever you listen you your podcasts.

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 80 - Freedom of speech, sewage and special guest Cllr Robbie Lammas 

Episode Highlights:

• Morality in Politics: The panel opens with a reflection on the importance of individual morality and moral judgement in political life, arguing that no amount of regulation can replace personal ethics.
• Council Crackdown on Foul Language: Thanet Council’s controversial plans to fine residents for abusive language via Public Spaces Protection Orders face legal challenges from free speech campaigners. Lord Toby Young and the Free Speech Union are preparing for a court battle over civil liberties.
• Sewage Nightmare in Strood: Residents at Kingsware Gardens share their 16-year struggle with persistent sewage problems, slow repairs, and frustrating management company processes. Orbit promises action but trust is low.

Special Guest Interview: Robbie Lammas (Medway Councillor & Conservative Party Insider)

• Robbie shares his journey from youth politics to Westminster, including leafleting beginnings and working as an MP researcher, special advisor, and chief of staff.
• Insights into the realities behind parliamentary roles—family-run offices, relentless networking ("never off"), and navigating party hierarchies.
• Reflections on last year’s general election campaign frustrations; lessons learned from US campaigning methods versus UK traditions.
• Discusses rising issue-based voting trends (over party loyalty), impact of migration policy on local planning demands, and whether Reform UK offers a pragmatic alternative for disaffected Conservatives.

Topical Debate: Live Facial Recognition Vans

• Home Office rolls out facial recognition technology across seven police forces (not yet Kent) to catch serious offenders. Panel explores concerns about surveillance creep vs operational effectiveness:
  • Dan argues it’s unlikely to solve core policing issues or meaningfully prevent crime.
  • Rob advocates more “bobbies on the beat” over tech solutions for true prevention.
  • Nikki weighs up privacy risks against public safety benefits—will it work as intended?

Thanks for listening to the Kent Politics Podcast - don't forget to check out stories throughout the week on the politics pages of KentOnline, and you can watch the Kent Politics Show on KMTV every Friday at 5pm or on demand at www.kmtv.co.uk

Don't forget to look out for more episodes of the Kent Politics Podcast, along with other shows at www.im-listening.co.uk or wherever you listen you your podcasts.

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST  

Episode 79 - 100 days of Reform, Rachel Reeves, and a pollster's view with special guest Martin Baxter  

This week on the Kent Politics Podcast:

• Reform UK's Rise in Kent: We mark 100 days since Reform UK took control of Kent County Council. What’s changed? Who’s winning—and at what cost?
• Local Regeneration Update: Dan revisits Herne Bay's long-awaited redevelopment—why has it stalled for years and is there light at the end of the tunnel?
• Chancellor Visits Medway: Rachel Reeves tours a revamped holiday park as millions are invested locally. What does this mean for jobs and businesses?
• Westminster Watch: The team unpacks Adam Holloway’s defection from Conservative to Reform UK—and reactions from political heavyweights.
• Polls & Predictions: Pollster Martin Baxter from Electoral Calculus helps make sense of shifting allegiances under first-past-the-post.

Split Votes & First Past The Post

• Why is Reform leading with just 30% in polls? How does our voting system shape local outcomes?

Herne Bay Redevelopment

• Delays explained: pandemic setbacks, funding woes, and revised plans aiming for more affordable homes—but will they deliver?

Medway Investment Surge

• Haven Holiday Park receives £40 million over four years; Chancellor Rachel Reeves touts job creation and economic optimism.

A Controversial New Era at County Hall

• Linden Kemkaran leads with a no-nonsense style but stirs debate—from flag bans to heated exchanges about social policy.

• Accusations of racism and transphobia rock council debates.
• Tories bide their time while Greens clash with Reform councillors.
• Early grumblings within Reform ranks over lost allowances—could unity crack under pressure?

Adam Holloway’s move to Reform UK splits opinion among former colleagues. Nigel Farage calls it “bold,” while Tory veterans question his judgement.

Thanks for listening to the Kent Politics Podcast - don't forget to check out stories throughout the week on the politics pages of KentOnline, and you can watch the Kent Politics Show on KMTV every Friday at 5pm or on demand at www.kmtv.co.uk

Don't forget to look out for more episodes of the Kent Politics Podcast, along with other shows at www.im-listening.co.uk or wherever you listen you your podcasts.

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 78 - Former Tory MP Adam Holloway explains why he has joined Nigel Farage's Reform UK 

This week on the Kent Politics Podcast, we bring you a packed episode featuring breaking political shifts, local activism, and international intrigue—all from a distinctly Kent perspective.

• Adam Holloway, former Gravesham MP, joins us to discuss his dramatic move from the Conservatives to Reform UK.
• We meet a 20-year-old Dover resident who claims presidency over an unrecognised Balkan micronation.
• Local housing battles heat up in Medway with Labour MPs at odds with their own councils.
• Plus: Westminster Watch covers Britain's new stance on Palestine and reactions from Kent’s MPs.

• After 19 years as Conservative MP for Gravesham, Adam Holloway explains why he joined Reform UK.
  • He criticises the current government as "truly shocking" and believes only Reform is serious about addressing national issues.
  • Denies opportunism—claims his decision isn’t about securing candidacy but contributing to what he calls a “rescue mission” for Britain.
  • Discusses party culture changes, DEI (Diversity Equity Inclusion) debates within Tories, and his admiration for Kemi Badenoch while doubting her support base in Parliament.

• Dan introduces Daniel Jackson—a young Dover man claiming leadership of an unrecognised country carved out of disputed land between Serbia and Croatia.
  • Despite efforts (and being banned from Croatia), legitimacy remains elusive but ambitions persist!

• Rob reports grassroots opposition against 750 new homes off Pump Lane; campaigners clash with council decisions despite previous victories.
  • Labour MP Naushabah Khan sides with protestors against her former council colleagues.

• Simon reveals that rising Dartford tolls could net the government £46 million extra next year—with local leaders demanding reinvestment into Kent infrastructure instead of funding projects elsewhere.

• Nikki recaps:
  • PM recalls ministers amid Gaza crisis; UN warns famine looms large.
  • Sir Keir Starmer pledges recognition of Palestine unless Israel takes peace steps by September—sparking heated responses domestically and abroad.
  • Local MPs Mike Tapp and Polly Billington voice strong humanitarian concerns and call for urgent action on aid delivery.

Have your say or suggest topics/questions: 📧 [email protected]

Stay updated via Kent Online or tune into KMTV’s politics show every Friday at 5pm (watch here). 

Thanks for listening to the Kent Politics Podcast - don't forget to check out stories throughout the week on the politics pages of KentOnline, and you can watch the Kent Politics Show on KMTV every Friday at 5pm or on demand at www.kmtv.co.uk

Don't forget to look out for more episodes of the Kent Politics Podcast, along with other shows at www.im-listening.co.uk or wherever you listen you your podcasts.

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 77 - Kent tips saved, Dover protests, Medway roadwork hell and special guest Cllr Antony Hook 

This week on the Kent Politics Podcast, we dive into a tumultuous period for local politics. From anti-immigration protests in Dover to public anger over water company bonuses and the ongoing shake-up at County Hall, our panel unpacks the stories shaping life across Kent. Special guest Antony Hook, newly appointed KCC opposition leader (Liberal Democrats), joins us to share insights on Reform UK's rise and what lies ahead for local government.

• Anti-immigration demonstrations led by ex-soldier Richard Donaldson saw around 300 attendees—far fewer than organisers claimed.
• Presence of extreme political groups noted; attendance by Reform UK councillors raised eyebrows given controversial elements.
• Panel reflects on how protest numbers often fall short of social media hype.

• Residents successfully halted two weeks of planned roadworks after raising concerns about an unworkable diversion route for heavy vehicles.
• Local action prompted council review—a win for community engagement.

• KCC confirms no household waste tips will close within five years—a relief after previous threats sparked public outcry.
• Lib Dems led successful campaigns against closures; lesson for current administration about underestimating local backlash.

• CEO Lawrence Gosden awarded nearly £700k bonus before new ban took effect—despite widespread pollution issues.
• Cross-party MPs demand return or redirection of payment amid customer frustration over rising bills and poor service.

On Reform UK’s Majority:

“Their victory was wide but shallow—only 37% vote share with almost twice as many voting against.”

On Council Challenges:

Budget crisis looms with possible £100m+ shortfall; cuts seem inevitable unless central government support increases.

On Local Government Reorganisation:

Supports single-tier authorities if shaped by residents—not imposed top-down—and calls for flexibility beyond rigid district boundaries.

On National Politics & Liberal Democrats’ Role:

Sees opportunity as both Tories and Labour falter nationally; advocates centrist vision focused on economic growth, skills training, education reform, and clear communication to counter populism.

Nikki reports growing cross-party anger at executive pay among failing utility firms—with Labour MPs calling recent Southern Water payouts “shameful.” Pressure mounts not just to reverse bonuses but also reconsider privatisation itself amid chronic underinvestment and lacklustre services affecting everyday lives across Kent.

Got a burning issue or question? Email your thoughts or voice notes to [email protected].

Stay informed via Kent Online's Politics Briefing Newsletter
Watch the latest episodes every Friday at 5pm on KMTV.

Thanks for listening to the Kent Politics Podcast - don't forget to check out stories throughout the week on the politics pages of KentOnline, and you can watch the Kent Politics Show on KMTV every Friday at 5pm or on demand at www.kmtv.co.uk

Don't forget to look out for more episodes of the Kent Politics Podcast, along with other shows at www.im-listening.co.uk or wherever you listen you your podcasts.

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 76 - More homes in Medway, KCC committees up and running, report into mortuary monster David Fuller, and special guest Cllr Oliver Bradshaw 

This week on the Kent Politics Podcast:

Solar Farm near Canterbury:
Dan revisits plans for an 80-football-pitch-sized solar farm at Tyler Hill—approved quickly due to its sub-50MW capacity. Expected to power up to 15,000 homes by 2026.

Medway Housing Expansion:
Rob covers new proposals for 750 homes off Pump Lane, Rainham. Strict conditions include schools and healthcare facilities—a response to previous rejected bids amid local concerns over traffic gridlock and loss of green spaces.

Simon reports that Kent County Council is back in action after May elections:

• Scrutiny Committee now chaired by opposition (Lib Dem/Labour), signalling openness under Reform UK leadership.
• Sale of council artworks initiated under Conservatives expected to raise £45k.

Nikki explains phase two findings:

• Serious failings found nationwide in mortuary oversight after Fuller's crimes went undetected for decades at Maidstone & Tunbridge Wells NHS Trusts.
• Chair Sir Jonathan Michael calls current arrangements “partial” and “ineffective”, urging statutory regulation—government response pending.

Elli details how Kent Online’s campaign reached Parliament:

• Cross-party support among all Kent MPs as well as others nationally pushes government towards fairer blue badge access for those with life-limiting illnesses such as cancer.

At just 23, Oliver shares his journey from Young Conservative activist disillusioned with Tory direction, through standing unsuccessfully last year, to winning big with Reform this May:

• On why he left Tories: "They have essentially betrayed every single one of their voters."
• On savings challenge ahead: Focuses on cutting unnecessary spending like electric vehicle conversions; seeks efficiency rather than slashing services or raiding reserves; admits challenge but remains optimistic about avoiding bankruptcy fears voiced by ex-councillors.
• On unitary authority reforms: Sceptical about rushed reorganisation without proper financial planning—warns residents may suffer if mishandled.

Dan unpacks revelations around thousands admitted via a secret resettlement scheme after MOD data leak put Afghans who worked with British forces at risk:

• At least £6bn cost projected; super-injunction lifted this week exposes scale—and controversy over public accountability persists.

Nigel Farage’s comments spark discussion about crime rates among arrivals—with contributors noting both uncomfortable facts about Afghanistan's social context and dangers of simplistic narratives.

The team agrees only Reform likely to question Britain’s obligations openly—their stance may find traction given public mood around costs vs service cuts elsewhere.

Have questions or want us to cover a topic? Email or send voice notes:
 [email protected]

Stay updated throughout the week via KentOnline Politics — sign up for our newsletter! Watch KMTV Fridays at 5pm or catch up online anytime.

Kent Politics Podcast, your essential guide to local and national political developments from a Kent perspective.

Thanks for listening to the Kent Politics Podcast - don't forget to check out stories throughout the week on the politics pages of KentOnline, and you can watch the Kent Politics Show on KMTV every Friday at 5pm or on demand at www.kmtv.co.uk

Don't forget to look out for more episodes of the Kent Politics Podcast, along with other shows at www.im-listening.co.uk or wherever you listen you your podcasts.

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 75 - Farage in Kent, public safety in Dover, and special guest ,expelled Labour councillor Jamie Pout.

Episode Overview:
This week’s episode of The Kent Politics Podcast dives deep into the latest local government developments and simmering tensions within the Labour Party. Special guest Jamie Pout, former Deputy Leader of Dover District Council, opens up about his high-profile expulsion from Labour and the factional strife dividing the party. The panel also unpacks a busy week in Kent politics—from Nigel Farage’s visit to County Hall to contentious public service debates and the local impact of Royal Mail’s delivery trial.

What’s Covered in This Episode:

Jamie Pout’s Expulsion from Labour:
Jamie shares his journey into politics, the rise to district council deputy leader, and his shock at being expelled from the Labour Party. He discusses the allegations against him, his fallout with local MP Mike Tapp, and his commitment to progressive values despite party in-fighting.

National and Local Labour Party Struggles:
The conversation pivots to the broader direction of the Labour Party, with Jamie’s critical take on its move to the right, internal discipline processes, and whether it still represents core left-wing principles.

Nigel Farage’s Visit to Kent:
Matt recaps Nigel Farage’s appearance at County Hall, his push for abolishing Kent County Council, proposed efficiency drives, and provocative stances on public spending—including the high costs of SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) school transport.

Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) in Dover:
Dan covers Dover District Council’s new measures targeting antisocial public drinking and disorderly behaviour, their rationale, and how enforcement will work in practice.

Royal Mail’s Controversial Delivery Trial:
Nikki discusses growing frustrations around delayed post due to Royal Mail’s delivery pilot in Tunbridge and Malling, the impact on important correspondence, and mounting pressure from local MPs to end the trial.

SEND School Transport Debate:
The panel tackles the thorny issue of high SEND transport costs, weighing vital service needs against public finances, and discussing why costs have rocketed—policy, demand, and outsourcing all come under scrutiny.

Looking Ahead—Local and National Political Fallout:
As new left-wing parties are forming and political loyalties shift, Jamie reflects on the future of progressive politics in Kent, his next steps as an independent, and whether he would ever return to Labour or join a splinter movement.

Key Quote:

“This is an individual that claims the Labour Party isn’t the party of welfare…if that’s the case then I’m quite happy being outside the Labour Party.” – Jamie Pout

Get Involved:
Got a political question or local issue for the panel? Email or send a voice note via kentpoliticspodcast.co.uk.

Further Reading & Watching:

Visit KentOnline for daily political coverage

Sign up for the Politics Briefing newsletter

Watch KMTV’s Politics Show every Friday at 5pm (kmtv.co.uk)

Thanks for listening!
Don’t miss our next episode for more insights and debate on the issues shaping Kent and the UK political landscape.

Thanks for listening to the Kent Politics Podcast - don't forget to check out stories throughout the week on the politics pages of KentOnline, and you can watch the Kent Politics Show on KMTV every Friday at 5pm or on demand at www.kmtv.co.uk

Don't forget to look out for more episodes of the Kent Politics Podcast, along with other shows at www.im-listening.co.uk or wherever you listen you your podcasts.

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 74 - Reform's debut, Kent's not working and making plans for Medway, special guest Damian Green 

This episode features a critical analysis of local governance issues, including the unveiling of Medway Council’s local plan and Reform UK’s debut in Kent County Council. We also welcome former Ashford MP Damian Green to reflect on his life after Westminster.

Medway's Controversial Local Plan:

• Medway Council’s 15-year housing and infrastructure strategy.
• Debate surrounding Chatham Docks’ residential development plans.
• Public consultation details following robust council debates.

Reform UK's First Steps at KCC:

• Insights into Reform UK taking control amidst economic inactivity concerns in Kent.
• Analysis of employment challenges with 21% economically inactive residents.

Westminster Watch:

•  Sir Keir Starmers' welfare reform bill chaos.
• Labour MPs' rebellion against cuts; implications for future government policies.

Damian Green Interview:

• Reflections on losing his seat after nearly three decades as an MP.
• His views on social care funding reforms and predictions about Nigel Farage’s leadership ambitions.

• "The day Nigel Farage says he’ll pass up short-term popularity is when I’ll believe he’s preparing for government." – Damian Green

Thanks for listening to the Kent Politics Podcast - don't forget to check out stories throughout the week on the politics pages of KentOnline, and you can watch the Kent Politics Show on KMTV every Friday at 5pm or on demand at www.kmtv.co.uk

Don't forget to look out for more episodes of the Kent Politics Podcast, along with other shows at www.im-listening.co.uk or wherever you listen you your podcasts.

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 73 - Rachel Reeves, KCC denied extension and special guest Tory group leader Harry Rayner 

Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast! Your go-to source for insightful discussions on local and national political matters. Join us as we delve into key issues affecting our community, from funding challenges to policy impacts. 

Government Funding Opportunities: 

• Discussion on possible government funding announcements expected between now and December.
• The financial expectations for the incoming administration's budget in 2026-27, with a focus on finding £120 to £130 million.

Westminster Watch: 

• Analysis of recent developments shaping UK's political landscape.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves' Visit: 

• Announced expansion of free school meal eligibility benefiting an additional 20,000 children in Kent.
• Addressed criticism regarding tackling deprivation issues and outlined government's commitments towards improving public services.

Local Government Reorganisation Update:

• Reform UK leadership at KCC faced a rejection from the government over delaying reorganisation plans.
• Insights into potential impacts of forming larger unitary authorities replacing current councils.

Interview with Harry Rayner:

• Former deputy cabinet member discusses electoral shifts post-Reform UK's rise.
• Explores Conservative Party's future strategies amidst changing political dynamics.

Kent Online Political Coverage Insight by Matt Ramsden:

• Overview of comprehensive politics coverage across platforms including newsletters, podcasts, and TV shows.

Labour MP Rebellion Against Welfare Bill Reform:

• Over 130 MPs signed an amendment opposing benefits cuts aimed at saving £5 billion annually by 2030.
• Discussion on implications for government stability amid internal dissentions.

Medway Council Updates: Chancellor Reeves’ visit discussing expanded free school meals scheme and its socio-economic impact locally.

Award-winning Reporting: Rob shares his journey winning New Journalist of the Year at the Kent Press & Broadcast Awards highlighting impactful stories covered.

Thanks for listening to the Kent Politics Podcast - don't forget to check out stories throughout the week on the politics pages of KentOnline, and you can watch the Kent Politics Show on KMTV every Friday at 5pm or on demand at www.kmtv.co.uk

Don't forget to look out for more episodes of the Kent Politics Podcast, along with other shows at www.im-listening.co.uk or wherever you listen you your podcasts.