THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 93 - Council office may become HMO, is Labour seriously getting rid of Starmer? and special guest former KCC leader Roger Gough

This episode features special guest Roger Gough, former leader of Kent County Council, discussing the challenges facing Reform UK at a local level and potential national implications.

Reform UK's Performance:

• Examining how Reform UK's control over councils is perceived nationally.
• The significance of their performance in flagship areas like Kent.

Kent's Local Government Reorganisation:

• Insights into past reorganisation efforts in the late '90s with Medway's transition to a unitary authority.
• Current plans for further restructuring across the county.

KCC Financial Strategies:

• Possible sale of Invicta House for housing purposes amidst budget constraints.
• Implications of such sales on local communities and governance.

National Labour Party Dynamics:

• Speculation around Keir Starmer’s leadership amid declining approval ratings.
• Potential challengers within Labour party ranks including Wes Streeting and Angela Rayner.

Roger Gough
Former Leader of Kent County Council shares his views on:

• The current administration under Reform UK.
• His experiences post-leadership focusing on advisory roles within local government frameworks.

"It was always going to be difficult… but I don’t think they help themselves by suggesting there were simple answers." – Roger Gough

"Adult social care is always going to be the rising cost that will make it tricky to set a balanced budget." – Panel Discussion

Have questions or topics you want us to explore? Email us at KentPoliticsPodcast@thekmgroup.co.uk or send a voice note!

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Catch up with politics throughout the week via Kent Online or tune into KMTV every Friday at 5pm for more political insights.

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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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THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 92 - Rachel Reeves takes aim at KCC, a £50m project gets the go-ahead, and special guest Andrew Kennedy

In this week's episode...

Political Turmoil in Kent:
Simon opens with reflections on the shifting political landscape in Kent, warning it could foreshadow national trends. The rise of Reform UK has led to a fractured coalition at County Hall.

Southern Water Sewage Saga:
Dan reports on Southern Water’s controversial sewage monitoring tool. A false report of a 100-hour discharge sparked local outrage and highlighted concerns over transparency and accountability.

£50 Million Biofuels Investment:
Rob covers Syntech BioFuel’s expansion in Kingsnorth, promising sustainable fuel for the Lower Thames Crossing construction and up to 200 new jobs for Medway.

Virgin Trains Return to Kent International Stations:
Nikki brings good news: Virgin plans cross-channel services stopping at Ashford and Ebbsfleet by 2030, ending Eurostar's monopoly—but upgrades are needed before trains roll out.

Andrew Kennedy reflects on:

• The Conservative collapse from dominance (57 seats) to just five.
• Impact of Reform UK’s surge—fuelled by protest votes rather than deep-rooted values.
• Lessons learned about voter targeting, misinformation, and reconnecting with disillusioned centre-right supporters.
• Predictions that Reform UK's fragile coalition will unravel due to lack of clear philosophy or solutions.
• Internal party tensions following leaked video controversy involving KCC leader Linden Kemkaran.
• Challenges facing council leadership amid budget deficits and service cuts.

Local Government Reorganisation:

Kennedy discusses potential reforms—including unitary authorities—and warns against creating an unwieldy single authority for all of Kent. He advocates boundaries reflecting community identity and explores alternative models like metro mayors for better funding/control.

The panel reacts to Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ hints at upcoming tax rises:

• Widespread scepticism about whether higher taxes will yield tangible improvements in public services.
• Comparison with European countries where citizens pay more but receive better social infrastructure.
• Concerns over government efficiency, trust issues, and demand for fast results if taxes increase.

Kent as Political Microcosm:
The county mirrors wider national uncertainty—with parties struggling to maintain unity under pressure from insurgent movements like Reform UK.

Public Accountability Under Scrutiny:
From water companies marking their own homework to politicians deflecting blame—transparency remains front-of-mind locally.

Economic Development Amid Unrest:
New investments signal hope but are set against backdrop of job losses, budget shortfalls, and contentious council reorganisation debates.

Taxation Realism vs Expectation Gap:
Public willingness exists—to pay more if returns are clear—but patience is thin after years without visible improvement.

Have questions or topics you want covered? Email or send a voice note: kentpoliticspodcast@thekmgroup.co.uk

Stay updated via Kent Online newsletters & catch KMTV's politics show Fridays at 5pm (watch online).

This podcast is an I Am Listening original production — find out more at iamlistening.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

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THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 91 - Reform at war, Medway Council slams KCC, parking fees hike in Canterbury, and special guest Naushabah Khan MP

In this week's episode:

• Naushaba Khan shares her personal experiences as a British Asian Muslim facing racism and abuse online.
• Discussion on the rise of divisive rhetoric from mainstream politicians around immigration and identity.
• The importance of calling out racism and maintaining British values of respect, equality, and tolerance.

• Ongoing turmoil within KCC’s Reform UK administration following leaked footage.
  • Five councillors expelled over accusations ranging from leaking information to bullying.
  • Leadership under fire but defiant; opposition parties demand accountability.
• Debate on leadership styles—whether strident defence is effective or damaging internally.

• Medway Council forced to withdraw a funding item due to last-minute changes demanded by KCC leadership regarding Visit Kent/Locate in Kent replacements.
  • Tension over financial contributions highlights challenges in inter-council cooperation.

• Canterbury City Council proposes another increase at premium car parks (£3.80/hr).
  • Local businesses voice concerns about damage to footfall; council cites budgetary needs.

• Naushaba Khan discusses surge in Houses of Multiple Occupancy (HMOs) across Gillingham:
  • Risks include loss of family homes, concentration of vulnerable residents, changing community character.
  • Advocates for Article Four Direction to control HMO proliferation locally.

National Perspective

• Labour government prioritising housing reform with investment into affordable homes and tackling homelessness—but acknowledges no quick fixes exist despite political pressure for instant solutions.

"For me, this is my identity… But that I now feel is being questioned." — Naushaba Khan

"One mistake we could make is staying silent… It grows legs if not called out." — Naushaba Khan

“Politics isn’t just consensus—it’s conflict between competing interests.” — Dan Esson

• The episode offers an honest look at the intersection between politics, race relations, local governance struggles—and how national debates impact real communities like those in Kent.*
• Listeners gain insight into the realities MPs face both inside Parliament and on their home turf—from running offices like small businesses to dealing with constituents’ everyday concerns.*

Have questions or topics you’d like discussed? Email or send a voice note:
📧 kentpoliticspodcast@thekmgroup.co.uk

Sign up for our newsletter: KentOnline.co.uk/newsletters
Watch KMTV's politics show Fridays at 5pm (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

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THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Epsiode 90 - Reform at war, immigration demo, University of Kent homes, and special guest Sojan Joseph MP

In this week's episode:

Reform UK’s Leadership Turmoil

• Leaked video of KCC leader Linden Kemkaran sparks outrage over her conduct and leadership style.
• Strong backlash from MPs; seven call for her resignation citing unprofessional behaviour.
• Internal party suspensions and threats of a no-confidence vote add to the chaos.

Canterbury Housing Controversy

• Major update on local plans: University of Kent's proposal for a new settlement scrapped amid environmental concerns and public opposition.
• University signals intent to push ahead regardless, driven by financial pressures.

Medway Anti-Migrant Demonstration

• UKIP-led march against illegal immigration met with overwhelming counter-protest from Stand Up To Racism activists.
• Tense but contained scenes; event claimed as victory by counter-demonstrators.

Local Government Challenges

• Guests highlight lack of experience among newly elected councillors, questioning their ability to govern effectively at county level.
• Debate over proposed unitary authority structure—concerns raised about size, diversity, and service delivery across Kent.

Political Fallout & Party Dynamics

• Discussion on whether Reform UK's internal strife is unique or typical of political parties’ growing pains under scrutiny.
• Speculation on Linden Kemkaran’s future as leader amidst mounting pressure but limited obvious successors.

Impact on Public Services

• Social care bottlenecks highlighted—patients stuck in hospital beds due to poor provisions affecting wider healthcare services.
• Frustrations voiced over slow progress post-election in areas like potholes, school transport, and council responsiveness.

"If you can't run a council, how are you going to run the country? That's the bigger question we should be asking."
— Sojan Joseph MP

"There's no democracy in their party… The administration want to make sure Nigel [Farage] is happy with every decision."
— On Reform UK’s leadership style

"The honeymoon period is well and truly over. No leader seems to have backing from all colleagues."
— Nikki White

Have a topic suggestion or burning question? Email or send your voice note: kentpoliticspodcast.co.uk

• Catch up with latest coverage via Kent Online
• Sign up for the politics newsletter: kentonline.co.uk/newsletters
• Watch KMTV's Politics Show Fridays at 5pm (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

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THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 89 - Council’s £4k cock-up, Rachel Reeves pays a visit, and special guest Cllr Amelia Randall

Episode Highlights:

• A costly parish council blunder triggers a £4,000 election in Birchington.
• Medway hosts a heated debate on flags and British identity.
• Chancellor Rachel Reeves visits Dartford to push for faster delivery of the Lower Thames Crossing.
• MP Helen Whately leads rally against Operation Brock’s traffic chaos.

Dan Essen uncovers how a clerical error at Birchington Parish Council led to confusion over ward representation. The oversight means an entire new election must be held—at significant expense—with costs split between Thanet District Council and the parish itself.

Robert Body reports from Medway, where community leaders and politicians discussed the meaning behind flag displays. Opinions ranged from grassroots dissatisfaction with government to concerns about far-right orchestration. Panelists debated legality, public safety, and cultural symbolism.

Simon Finley covers Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ visit to promote reforms streamlining infrastructure planning. Labour aims to limit judicial reviews for major projects like the £10bn Lower Thames Crossing—due by 2034—to unlock growth more quickly. Gravesham MP Lauren Sullivan campaigns for toll revenues to revive local ferry services.

Nikki White previews an upcoming rally led by MP Helen Whately calling for alternatives to Operation Brock—a contraflow system causing gridlock across Kent during peak travel times. With mounting public frustration and high operational costs, urgent action is demanded.

Amelia shares her journey from Reform UK councillor to UKIP defector:

• Frustration with lack of unity and direction in Reform UK prompted her move.
• She argues that reasserting Christian values is vital for British culture—integration should respect foundational traditions while allowing freedom of belief.
• Defends decision not to call a by-election after switching parties; insists she acted in line with voters’ expectations for real change.
• Discusses balancing personal beliefs—including psychic interests—with political activism as UKIP seeks renewed support under charismatic leadership.

The panel debates Britain’s ability—and willingness—to deliver large-scale projects efficiently amid regulatory hurdles:

“Plenty of countries manage it… but successive governments have created endless bureaucracy.”

Local voices urge direct community benefits from future developments such as discounted tolls or restored transport links funded by project revenues.

Have your say or suggest topics: 📧 kentpoliticspodcast@kmgroup.co.uk
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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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THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 88 - Kent’s high streets, councillor defections, Badenoch’s balancing act and special guest Robbie Lammas

In this week's episode of The Kent Politics Podcast....

Major Defections Rock Local Politics

• Medway councillor Robbie Lammas joins Reform UK alongside four Gravesham colleagues.
• Discussion on the motivations and impact of these defections from the Conservatives to Reform.

High Streets Under Pressure

• Analysis of the new "Pride In Place" government scheme aiming to revitalise rundown areas in Kent.
• Insight into planning reforms giving councils more control over vape shops, bookies and barbers—seen as symptoms of urban decline.

Council Drama in Medway

• Vote of no confidence against independent councillor Chris Spalding following allegations of bullying and mismanagement.
• Exploration of local governance challenges and accountability mechanisms.

Kemi Badenoch's Tory Conference Speech

• Reflection on her first conference speech as leader amid party turmoil.
• Will she survive until next year? Panel weighs up her prospects given catastrophic poll numbers for both main parties.

National Scene: Division & Extremism

• Dover MP Mike Tapp responds to a tragic synagogue attack in Manchester; calls for unity across religious and ethnic lines.

Robbie shares his reasons for defecting:

• Loss of trust in Conservatives among constituents;
• Alignment with Reform UK's communitarian conservative philosophy;
• Frustration with local Tory response to issues like flag removal and asylum seeker redistribution;
• Reflections on personal attacks received post-defection—and why political loyalty should serve real change over tribalism.

He predicts further defections—including possibly from Labour—and explains how Reform is building grassroots momentum by vetting genuine believers rather than opportunists.

Latest IPSOS polling:

• Reform UK surges ahead at 34%, Labour trails at 22%, Tories collapse to 14%—lowest since June '09 for Labour, historic lows all round.
• Only 13% satisfied with Keir Starmer as PM; widespread dissatisfaction signals turbulent times ahead for both major parties.

Panel analysis:

Both Tories and Labour punished for failing to tackle small boat crossings. Voters increasingly pick out key manifesto points that matter most personally—making protest votes more common than ever before.

1. Kent’s Political Landscape Is Shifting Fast: Defections signal deep dissatisfaction within traditional party ranks; expect more movement toward populist alternatives like Reform UK.
2. Local Issues Matter More Than Ever: Cost-of-living pressures, high street decay, immigration policy—all driving voter behaviour locally as well as nationally.
3. Leadership Uncertainty Looms Large: Kemi Badenoch faces an uphill battle; neither main party can take its base or future leadership security for granted amid record-low satisfaction ratings.

Have a question or topic suggestion? Email us or send a voice note:
📧 kentpoliticspodcast@thekmgroup.co.uk

Stay updated: 🔗 KentOnline – Politics Briefing Newsletter
📺 Watch the Kent Politics show every Friday at 5pm on KMTV

For more info about this podcast visit: im-listening.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

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THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 87 - Affordable homes and supported living refused and Kent's debt billions, featuring special guest Martin Baxter

This week's episode explores how Reform UK's rise is reshaping Kent’s political scene, sparking tactical voting among Labour and Conservatives. Local planning disputes, council debt concerns, and shifting party fortunes highlight wider national challenges. Tactical voting now crucially influences outcomes as parties strategise for the 2029 election amidst ongoing voter disillusionment.

Episode Highlights:

• Developers refusing to build affordable homes in Bobbing, Sittingbourne.
• Medway family's fight for assisted living accommodation amid council setbacks.
• Kent councils facing a staggering £2.3 billion debt ahead of local government reform.
• Tactical voting trends reshaping the political landscape across Kent and beyond.

Dan explores why Payne's Development is proposing zero affordable housing in their new estate near Bobbing—citing profit margins as justification under current national planning policy.

Robert shares the Butler family’s struggle after council refused permission for an annex to support their chronically ill son, despite ongoing construction on their main house and significant personal setbacks.

Simon reports that Kent's councils owe £2.3 billion collectively—a financial burden threatening the viability of upcoming reforms to unitary authorities, with stark disparities between districts.

Martin unpacks fresh polling data:

• Anti-Reform UK tactical voting is emerging strongly; up to one-third of Labour voters would back Conservatives just to keep Reform out.
• Reform leads nationally but faces resistance from coordinated tactical votes by other parties’ supporters.
• Liberal Democrats remain stable around 70 seats; potential for gains if centre-ground politics resurges.
• The next election could see unpredictable three-way fights (notably Sevenoaks), making outcomes harder to forecast.

• Labour’s recent conference speech received mixed reviews: engaging but lacking substance according to hosts Dan and Rob.
• Keir Starmer’s leadership remains secure—for now—as no clear successor emerges, though internal challenges persist.
• Upcoming Caerphilly by-election may signal further trouble for Labour if Plaid Cymru or Reform outperform expectations.

Voters are increasingly savvy about tactical voting—especially when it comes to blocking parties they oppose most. Kent faces unique pressures from developer decisions and looming council debts—local stories reflect wider national tensions.

Have questions or topics you want covered? Email or send a voice note: kentpoliticspodcast@kmgroup.co.uk

Sign up for the Politics Briefing newsletter at KentOnline.co.uk
Catch KMTV's politics show every Friday at 5pm (watch here)

For more info on this podcast network visit im-listening.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

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THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 86 - Local government reorganisation, Channel Tunnel services back in Kent, and special guest Reform's Richard Tice

Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast! This week, Simon and the team are joined by special guest Richard Tice (Reform UK MP) for a lively discussion on local council developments and national political shifts.

• Dan dives into Thanet District Council’s ambitious plan to build an eco-friendly business hub at the Port of Ramsgate.
• Funded via Levelling Up money; aims to foster local enterprise but lacks private sector interest so far.
• Only two out of three buildings will be constructed initially—future plans remain under wraps.

• Robert reports on Labour-led Medway pushing ahead with costly reorganisation plans despite fierce Tory opposition.
• Conservatives label it a "vanity project" and challenge transparency over consultation with key services like police and schools.
• Decision called in for scrutiny—but Labour holds committee majority.

• International train stops at Ashford suspended since Covid; campaign intensifies to reinstate them.
• Local MPs lobby regulators for competition against Eurostar, claiming huge economic benefits (£2.7bn boost & 500k extra visitors).
• Kent County Council planning events to promote the county as a tourist destination—details embargoed!

Richard Tice shares his views on Reform UK's surge in popularity:

“We’re talking about real issues that matter—immigration, high energy bills, government waste.”

Immigration & Border Control

Tice outlines bold policies if Reform leads government:

• Leave European Convention on Human Rights
• Scrap Human Rights Act
• Enact robust detention/deportation laws

He claims current systems allow “lefty judges” too much power over border policy.

Economic Vision

Promising deep cuts to public sector waste and quangos; proposes performance-related tax cuts funded by savings from axing inefficient spending.

Electoral System Debate

Despite rising poll numbers, Reform remains committed to proportional representation—even while competing under first-past-the-post rules.

Local Impact in Kent

With polling suggesting major gains across Kent’s parliamentary seats—including potential upsets—the party is keen to showcase cost-saving reforms already underway at council level (e.g., early loan repayments).

Dan & Robert debate whether mass deportations or radical immigration reform are feasible—or politically palatable—for mainstream voters. Legal hurdles and state capacity pose big challenges; some policies may need softening before election day.

Labour’s own review of indefinite leave-to-remain rules could shape future debates—and possibly take heat off Reform’s more controversial proposals.

Have questions or topics you want covered? Email or send a voice note: kentpoliticspodcast@thekmgroup.co.uk

Stay informed:

• Sign up for Politics Briefing Newsletter
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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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