The Kent Politics Podcast

Kent Politics Podcast – Show Notes

Episode highlights:
 

 • Danny Dyer takes petition to Parliament

• Danny Dyer went to Parliament to hand over a petition signed by more than 340,000 people calling for all water companies to be brought back under public control.
• The actor was joined by Sittingbourne and Sheppey MP Kevin McKenna and the SOS Whitstable co-founder Ed Acteson.
• The petition argues that privatisation has failed both the public and the environment.
   

 •  Out-of-hours GP service to move from hospital 

• An out-of-hours GP service will no longer be based at a hospital.
• MedOCC has moved from Medway Maritime hospital in Gillingham to MCH House at Gillingham Business Park. 
• Anyone in need of assistance after their surgery has closed is asked to continue to ring 111.

•  Nigel Farage makes key immigration pledge in Kent

• The MP attended an event in Lympne, near Hythe, to announce a key new Immigration policy for his party
• Reform say if they get into power they will suspend the right for anyone to seek refuge in our country.
• He also says if they get into power they will suspend the right for anyone to seek refuge in our country.

Key Interviews & Opinions:

 •  Former Reform turned Restore Britain councillor Oliver Bradshaw lifts the lid on what it was like working under the current administration, his hopes for Restore Britain at the ballot box and his vision for sorting out the immigration issues affecting the county.

Send questions or comments via email or voice note to Kent Politics Podcast. 

Listener Engagement: Have your say! 

Have your say! Send questions or comments via email or voice note to Kent Politics Podcast.

Stay Connected: 

For more updates: 

• Visit our Politics page 

• Sign up for our weekly newsletter 

• Watch KMTV's politics show every Friday at 5pm 

Thank you for tuning into this week's episode.

Stay informed with ongoing stories throughout the week on our platforms. 

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 kmfm.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts.

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 kmfm.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts

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Episode Title: Is Medway Ready for Change?

Host: Robert Boddy
Guests: Daniel Esson, Nikki White, Matt Ramsden, Andrew Lawrence

In this episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, host Robert Boddy steps in for usual host Simon Finlay. Joining him are senior news editor Nikki White, senior editor Matt Ramsden and reporter Daniel Esson to discuss pressing issues affecting Medway and surrounding areas.

• Dartford MP Jim Dixon's Unusual Case:
  • Nikki White highlights the story of Bob Thwaites whose caravan was bulldozed on Swanscombe Peninsula.
  • Legal complications around adverse possession rights and support from local MP Jim Dixon.
• HMOs and Asylum Seekers:
  • Daniel Esson delves into plans by the Home Office to house asylum seekers in Walderslade.
  • The debate over HMO permissions leading to an Article Four direction vote by Tunbridge council members.
• Medway Commercial Group Fraud Investigation:
  • Matt Ramsden shares updates on a long-running investigation shelved by police after years of inquiry.
  • Medway Council’s decision to report Kent Police to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

• Andrew Lawrence – Founder of 'Medway First':
  • A lifelong Conservative who left the party to focus on local issues through his new political initiative.
  • Discussion about why he believes established parties have failed Medway over recent decades.
  • Insights into 'Medway First' policies aimed at addressing civic pride, financial management, and inward investment.

"Has anything got better over the last ten or fifteen years? There is this creeping running down of Medway." – Andrew Lawrence

"I'm focusing on Medway's problems… Reform are not the answer." – Andrew Lawrence

Listeners are encouraged to share their thoughts or suggest topics via email at kentpoliticspodcast.com.

• Visit Kent Online for more political stories throughout the week.
• Tune into KMTV’s politics show every Friday at 5 PM or watch it online at kmtv.co.uk.

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 kmfm.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode Highlights:

• Illegal Employment Fines:
  • Three Medway businesses fined a total of £220,000 for employing illegal workers.
  • Businesses include Ocean Hand Car Wash, Fireaway Pizza, and Thaal Indian Kitchen.
  • Joint operations by local councils and agencies to ensure legal trading environments.
• Flood Defence Project Completion:
  • New £42 million flood defences near Tunbridge now operational.
  • Designed to protect thousands of homes and businesses from climate change-related risks.
  • Features expanded live flood storage area capable of holding around 7.4 million cubic metres of water.
• Concerns Over Water Supply & Development Plans:
  • MPs request urgent meeting with Housing Minister over development plans impacting water supplies in Tunbridge and Malling.
  • Government insists on progressing with the draft local plan despite concerns about infrastructure adequacy.
• Security Threats & Russian Concerns:
  • Potential security threats highlighted following incidents involving plane safety and arrests near an RAF base.
  • Former serviceman Henry Bolton warns about vulnerabilities at the Port of Dover amid potential Russian hostilities.

Key Interviews & Opinions:

• Councillor Jamie Henderson discusses the importance of new flood defences in adapting to climate change impacts on waterways in Kent.
• Former military intelligence officer Philip Ingram provides insights into security measures at UK ports amidst rising tensions with Russia.

Listener Engagement:

Have your say! Send questions or comments via email or voice note to Kent Politics Podcast.

Stay Connected:

For more updates:

• Visit our Politics page
• Sign up for our weekly newsletter
• Watch KMTV's politics show every Friday at 5pm

Thank you for tuning into this week's episode. Stay informed with ongoing stories throughout the week on our platforms.

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 kmfm.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts

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• New Council Homes in Medway: Explore the opening of 81 new council homes across Gillingham and Twiddle, aiming to reduce social rent waiting times. Discover how these developments honour local political figures like Paul Harriot.
• Housing Targets Across Kent: Dive into the performance of various councils under increased housing targets set by the government. Learn about successes and challenges faced by districts such as Sevenoaks, Maidstone, Dartford, and Dover.
• Water Pollution Concerns: MP Tony Vaughan discusses water pollution issues affecting beaches in Folkestone Hythe and Romney Marsh. Hear about his Clean Our Beaches campaign and recent public protests led by celebrities like Danny Dyer for public ownership of water.

Join Nikki White as she interviews international security expert Henry Bolton on potential threats from Russia. Discusses airspace violations, cyber-attacks, and military activity that may impact national security.

Key Points:

• Increased Russian hybrid warfare tactics.
• The importance of securing critical infrastructure in places like Kent.
• Potential geopolitical consequences if tensions escalate further.

Have a topic or question for our panel? Reach out via email or send a voice note to [email protected].

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 kmfm.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

• Budget Woes: Medway Council faces significant financial challenges with a potential £360 million shortfall over the next five years. The council is in discussions with the government for additional support.
• Honouring Heroes: The Brigade of Gurkhas has been awarded the Freedom of Kent, recognising their distinguished service to the UK. This honour reflects their esteemed presence and contributions.
• Controversial Comments: Dartford Grammar School for Girls becomes a topic of discussion following comments by MP Rupert Low
•  on ethnic demographics, sparking local political debate.
• Justice for George Low: Ten years after his tragic murder in Cyprus, efforts continue to bring those responsible to justice. Local MPs are pushing for international cooperation to resolve this case.

Medway Council struggles with budget deficits despite previous government support. Efficiency measures and increased charges have been implemented but further assistance might be required due to ongoing financial pressures, particularly from social care services.

Kent County Council honours the Brigade of Gurkhas, highlighting their elite military history and cultural impact within Kent communities. This ceremonial recognition underscores public admiration without conferring any formal privileges.

Rupert Lowe’s remarks about demographic changes at Dartford Grammar School stir controversy among local politicians who defend inclusivity while criticising divisive rhetoric as harmful and unrepresentative of community values.

A decade since George Low’s murder, his family continues seeking justice as suspects remain free in Turkey. Recent parliamentary debates aim to renew diplomatic efforts between Cyprus and Turkey towards legal resolution.

Have thoughts or questions? Reach out via email or voice note at [email protected]

Stay Updated: For more politics news visit Kent Online daily or sign up for our newsletter. Watch KMTV's Politics show every Friday at 5pm 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 kmfm.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts

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Episode Highlights:

• Introduction:
  Host Nikki White, Senior News Editor with the KM Group, introduces this week's episode filled with political drama in Kent.
• Medway Political Shake-Up:
  • Councillor Andrew Lawrence resigns from the Conservative Party to form his own party, Medway First.
  • Aims for more local accountability and challenges current political dynamics.
  • Plans to contest future elections despite a halt on North Kent unitary plans.
• Ferry Service Revival Efforts:
  • Prime Minister supports reinstating Gravesend to Tilbury ferry service.
  • The service was halted due to funding issues but may see a revival with government backing.
• Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) Pause:
  • Angela Rayner announces a pause on reorganisation plans affecting all of Kent's councils.
  • Concerns over wasted efforts and uncertainty among council staff are discussed.
• Insightful Commentary:
  • Local democracy reporter Simon Finlay shares insights into the unexpected LGR pause.
  • Discusses potential reasons behind the decision including cost concerns and upcoming general election implications.

Discussion Points:

1. Medway First Formation: Examines motivations behind Andrew Lawrence's new party amidst regional governance changes.
2. Transport Connectivity: Importance of restoring critical transport links like the Gravesend-Tilbury ferry for local constituents is highlighted by national leaders' support.
3. Impact of LGR Pause: Explores effects on council operations and employee morale following sudden policy shifts; speculates future governmental strategies post-review period.
4. Political Speculations & Consequences: Potential outcomes for existing councils and Reform UK's position in upcoming electoral contests given recent developments.

Get Involved:

Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via email at [email protected] or send us a voice note!

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 kmfm.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts

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Hosts: Dan Esson, Simon Finlay, Robert Boddy
Guest: Tris Osborne (Labour MP for Chatham and Aylesford)

In this episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, hosts Dan Esson, Simon Finlay, and Robert Boddy dive into the latest political happenings across Kent. They discuss a notable district council by-election in Dover that saw an unexpected Green Party victory due to vote splitting among right-wing parties.

The team also explores disciplinary issues within Medway Council involving Councillor Chris Spalding's conduct. Later on, they welcome Labour MP Tris Osborne to discuss his views on recent leadership changes within the Labour Party and local government reform proposals.

• Dover By-Election Analysis:
  • Unexpected Green Party win due to split votes between Reform UK and Restore Britain.
  • Implications of right-wing vote fragmentation in traditionally conservative areas.
• Medway Council Disciplinary Actions:
  • Details surrounding Councillor Chris Spalding’s breaches of conduct.
  • Impact of sanctions on his ability to perform council duties effectively.
• Leadership Changes & Shadow Cabinet Appointments:
  • Discussion on Tom Tugendhat as Shadow Foreign Secretary.
  • Katie Lamb’s new role as Shadow Housing Secretary amidst housing challenges in Kent.
• Interview with Tris Osborne:
  • His perspective on Keir Starmer's resignation as an MP.
  • Thoughts on Andy Burnham’s leadership style compared to Starmer's tenure.
  • Views on local government reforms including unitary authority restructuring plans for Kent.
• Local Government Funding Challenges:
  • Financial strains from social care responsibilities discussed with potential solutions hinted at by Andy Burnham's policies.

"Reform UK's challenge remains significant despite their sliding poll numbers." – Tris Osborne

"Social care needs massive reform; we can't be held hostage by private sector pricing." – Tris Osborne

1. Subscribe to our weekly Kent Politics Newsletter for more insights and updates.
2. Tune into KMTV’s Politics show every Friday at 5pm or catch up online at kmtv.co.uk.
3. Share your thoughts or questions about local politics via email at [email protected]

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 kmfm.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode Highlights:

Community Support for The Creeping Fig:

Tributes to Rodney Chambers:

Cliftonville Skate Park Plans:

Dartford Housing Concerns:

Swale Poppy Row:

Get Involved: Have your say or suggest topics by emailing or sending voice notes via Kent Politics Podcast.

Stay Connected: Visit our Politics page and subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Watch KMTV's Politics show every Friday at 5pm live or on-demand at 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 kmfm.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode Highlights:

Violence Against Women and Girls:

AI Data Centre Controversy in Southfleet:

Uncollected Rubbish Crisis in Medway:

Virgin Trains' Channel Tunnel Ambitions:

UK's Hottest Summer on Record:

Get Involved:

Stay Updated:

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 kmfm.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode Highlights:

Housing Developments and Water Supply Concerns:

Medway Orchard Development Controversy:

Social Care Financial Strain in Medway:

Water Companies as Statutory Consultees:

Drought Challenges in Maidstone:

Neshaba Khan’s Response to Racist Abuse:

Stay Connected:

For more political news updates throughout the week:

Get Involved: Share your thoughts or questions via email or voice note at [email protected]

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 kmfm.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.