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

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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

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THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 95 - Local government reorganisation, councillor’s WhatsApp leak shame, budget response and special guest Cllr Stuart Jeffery

In this week's episode;

Reform UK Controversy:

• Discussion on a Reform councillor's controversial WhatsApp messages.
• Reaction from political figures including Rachel Reeves.

Local Developments in Kent:

• Approval of phases for an 800-home development at Capstone Valley amidst public opposition.
• Insight into the planning committee’s reluctant approval process.

Local Government Reorganisation in Kent:

• Deadline for business case submissions to Whitehall discussed.
• Five proposals on the table with "3A" being the most popular option among councils.

Budget Analysis by Chancellor Rachel Reeves:

• Breakdown of budget highlights including tax changes and NHS funding.
• Critique on economic strategies and their impact on local governance.

Housing Crisis Focused Segment:

• MP Nishaba Khan raises concerns over HMO conversions affecting community fabric in Gillingham.
• Debate around legislation improvements for managing housing developments responsibly.

Interview with Stuart Jeffrey (Green Party):

• Discusses potential outcomes of local government reforms.
• Insight into Green Party policies resonating with younger demographics under new leadership Zach Polanski.

Judicial System Challenges & Jury Trials Debate: – Proposal to limit jury trials due to backlog; implications discussed by panelists Matt Ramsden joins this segment for additional insights.

Listener Engagement Prompt: – Encouragement for audience interaction through questions or topic suggestions via email or voice notes.

"The two things they set out to do—stop the boats and save money—they've completely failed." — Panelist discussing Reform UK's promises

"Climate change is going to be one of the massive things that happens…we have got that eye towards a slightly longer future." — Stuart Jeffrey reflecting on Green Party priorities

• Subscribe to our Politics Briefing newsletter via KentOnline.
• Watch KMTV’s politics show every Friday at 5pm or catch up 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 kmfm.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts

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THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 94 - Linden Kemkaran and Vince Maple go head to head, libraries and tips face closure, and will the government’s immigration policies work?

In this week's episode;

• Chaos at KCC: Linden addresses accusations of chaos following recent controversial events including leaked videos and councillor expulsions.
• Reform's Financial Strategy: Emphasises savings made under Reform UK's leadership amidst inherited financial challenges.

• Medway’s Care Home Project: Approval for a new 80-bed facility despite opposition concerns about borrowing costs.
• Motion Changes Controversy: Reduction in council meeting motions sparks allegations of anti-democratic practices aimed at smaller parties.

• Discussion on the contentious plans for an undersea cable project affecting Minster Marshes with significant local opposition due to environmental concerns.

• The potential closure of libraries and waste recycling centres as part of budget balancing efforts discussed amid public backlash fears.

• New asylum system reforms announced by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stir division among MPs; implications for border control and community impact debated.

Linden Kemkaran (Reform UK)

• Defends strong leadership style against accusations post "suck it up" video leak.
• Criticises Labour’s handling of immigration policy changes as inadequate amidst rising illegal migration issues.

Vince Maple (Labour)

• Challenges Reform UK's claims regarding chaotic governance at KCC.
• Advocates for Medway's reorganisation plan while addressing internal party processes concerning suspended councillors.

Listeners are encouraged to share their views or questions via email or voice note at KentPoliticsPodcast@thekmgroup.co.uk.

For more political insights throughout the week, visit Kent Online or tune into KMTV every Friday at 5pm. Subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates on 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 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!

Stay Connected

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

For more podcasts from I Am Listening, 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 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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