THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 98 - Traffic fine mistakes, changing face of Kent and special guest, Reform’s Maxwell Harrison

Welcome to the latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, where we delve into local politics and current affairs affecting Kent. In this week's episode...

• Rob explores the issue of potentially thousands of traffic fines being issued erroneously in Medway due to inadequate signage.
• A case study involving Chris Lee successfully appealing against a fine highlights flaws in existing road signs.

• Dan dives deep into intra-British migration statistics from ONS, revealing Canterbury as having the highest inward migration within Kent.
• Dartford stands out for its high proportion of new residents coming from London.

• Nicky discusses Sittingbourne MP Kevin McKenna's advocacy for lifting the two-child benefit cap amidst rising child poverty rates.

• Highlighting community spirit, Moot Brewery gets recognition as one of their beers is served at Westminster thanks to Rochester MP Lauren Edwards' support.

Councillor Harrison shares his journey and political views:

• His transition from Conservative voter to joining Reform UK.
• The challenges faced by Reform UK since taking control over KCC, including factional disputes leading to councillor defections.

Harrison defends Nigel Farage’s leadership while addressing criticisms about reform's stability and potential long-term impact on British politics. He emphasises a grassroots approach despite critics labelling it a personality cult around Farage.

The hosts reflect on 2025’s major events like reform's rise in KCC elections and Labour government struggles. Looking ahead:

1. Possible changes following local elections impacting Keir Starmer’s position.
2. Continued scrutiny on Reform UK's governance capabilities amid internal conflicts.
3. Increased focus on LGR (Local Government Reorganisation) raising public awareness before upcoming ballots.

Exciting developments are planned for 2026 with format changes to the Podcast, introducing bite-sized editions alongside traditional episodes featuring more comprehensive discussions with two guests debating significant monthly stories!

Stay informed by visiting Kent Online or tuning into KMTV every Friday at 5pm for more engaging content around regional politics!

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 97 - Action over HMOs, Question Time in Kent, and new group formed at KCC by ex Reform members, with special guest Cllr Connie Nolan

Welcome to the latest episode of the Kent Politics podcast, where local democracy reporter Simon Finley is joined by Robert Boddy, Dan Erstin, and Nikki White. This week’s discussion covers a range of pressing topics affecting Kent's political landscape.

• Action on Housing: Medway Council plans to introduce an Article 4 direction to control the proliferation of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). This will require planning permission for HMOs with fewer than six occupants.
• Community Impact: Concerns include parking pressure and antisocial behaviour linked to HMOs.

• Wealden Condition Proposal: The City Council's Green Group pushes for developers to address sewage infrastructure before construction.
• Cabinet Decision: Legal constraints prevent imposing blanket conditions; council awaits water company plans instead.

• New Independent Group Formation: Expelled Reform UK councillors form 'The Independent Group' (TIG), led by Councillor Paul Thomas.
• Political Turmoil: Since May elections, several Reform members have been expelled or defected.

• Immigration Debate Sparks Controversy: A lively debate ensues during BBC’s Question Time focused on immigration issues. MP Mike Tapp criticises fellow panelist Zia Yousef for condescending remarks towards an audience member.

Connie Nolan shares her views as one of only two Labour county councillors left after Reform UK's significant electoral success. She discusses challenges faced by Labour candidates and reflects on Rosie Duffield's departure from the party, expressing disappointment over her timing and its impact on Labour's brand in Canterbury.

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.

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 96 - Ambulance woes, water crisis and special guest, former MP Kelly Tolhurst

This episode covers a range of topics including challenges faced by the South East Ambulance Service, CCTV malfunctions in Ashford Borough, leadership changes at Kent County Council, and water supply crises impacting Tunbridge Wells.

• Representatives from the South East Ambulance Service were questioned about their response to an undercover documentary revealing resource strains.
• Councillors expressed dissatisfaction with the service's defensive stance post-documentary.

• Reports indicate significant numbers of malfunctioning CCTV cameras are impeding crime evidence collection.
• Concerns over council’s intentions amidst plans to relocate monitoring services.

• Amanda Beer reverses retirement decision; remains Chief Executive until March 2026 amidst ongoing local government reorganisation discussions.

• Thousands left without water due to chemical mishap at treatment works.
• MP Mike Martin actively communicates updates while calling for accountability from South East Water’s CEO.

• Former Rochester and Strood MP discusses life after politics and her continued involvement in local issues like Chatham Docks redevelopment controversy.

Interview Spotlight: Kelly Tolhurst

Kelly reflects on:

• Her transition out of Parliament,
• The impact of losing skilled jobs at Chatham Docks,
• Her perspective on current political dynamics within Medway Council regarding housing developments versus industrial preservation.

Listeners are encouraged to participate by submitting questions or suggesting topics via email or voice note to kentpoliticspodcast@thekmgroup.co.uk.

Stay informed through our weekly newsletter and follow us for more political coverage on KMTV every Friday at 5pm!

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.