THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 70 - DOGE arrives at KCC, another restaurant busted for immigration offences and special guest Matthew Scott

This week’s episode delves into recent developments across Kent County Council with a focus on governance efficiency, election costs, immigration enforcement challenges, and major housing development proposals.

Election Synchronisation Debate:

• Discussion around holding PCC elections simultaneously with county elections to reduce costs and increase voter turnout.
• Insights from Matthew Scott regarding his role as PCC amidst low public recognition but significant impact through funding initiatives.

Doge Audit Controversy:

• Analysis of KCC's decision to bring in an external Department of Government Efficiency ('DOGE') team led by Reform UK.
• Political ramifications as Medway Labour leader Vince Maple criticises the approach as threatening towards council staff.

Immigration Enforcement at Local Businesses:

• Investigation into Badsha Indian Cuisine facing licence revocation due to historical immigration offences.
• Broader implications for illegal labour practices within local businesses.

Heathlands Garden Village Proposal Concerns:

• Examination of plans for 5,000 new homes near Lenham amid infrastructure concerns raised by MP Helen Whateley.
• Discussion on balancing green space preservation with meeting housing needs.

Future of Policing Oversight in Kent:

• Conversation with Matthew Scott about potential abolition or integration of PCC roles within new Strategic Mayoral Authority structures under government reorganisation plans.

Public Sector Efficiency Drives – A Double-edged Sword?

• Critique on Reform strategies perceived as undermining public sector morale while pursuing cost savings.

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 69 - Medway's Local Plan, waste dump crisis, estate management anger, and special guest, County Councillor Stuart Heaver

The episode explores Kent's political landscape, focusing on Reform UK's rise in the County Council. Key topics include Medway’s Local Plan delays, residents challenging estate management in Ebbsfleet, and illegal fly-tipping likened to "county lines" crime. The podcast features Westminster Watch for national politics and an interview with Green Councillor Stuart Heaver.

Introduction: Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast, your source for in-depth discussions on local and national political issues. This episode covers significant developments across Kent County and features insightful interviews with key figures.

Medway's Local Plan: Medway is set to release its long-awaited local plan next month. The draft will outline housing, employment land, and infrastructure plans for the next 16 years. Key contentious areas include Chatham Docks and the Hoo Peninsula.

Estate Management Issues in Ebbsfleet: Residents of Springhead Parkway Estate aim to replace their management firm due to exorbitant service charges and poor maintenance. They seek a majority petition under the Leasehold Act 2002 to exert their right to manage.

Illegal Waste Dumping Concerns: Matthew Scott, Kent Police & Crime Commissioner, compares illegal waste dumping networks to county line drug operations. A summit with various stakeholders aims to address this growing issue.

Westminster Watch:

• MPs are using parliamentary recess for constituency visits.
• Dartford MP Jim Dixon raises awareness about bootleg alcohol dangers following a tragic incident involving methanol poisoning abroad.

Stuart Heaver, newly elected Green Party Councillor for Whitstable West discusses:

• His unexpected journey into politics driven by local environmental concerns.
• Challenges faced as an opposition member against Reform UK's large majority at County Hall.
• Critiques of Reform UK’s symbolic decisions like flag policies which he views as posturing rather than substantive governance.

Local Government Reorganisation: Concerns over centralisation with upcoming changes dividing Kent into unitary authorities.

Housing Policies: Debates around sustainable development versus luxury housing proliferation; Green Party’s stance on right homes in appropriate places without compromising green spaces.

Reform UK Policy Analysis: Nigel Farage's recent pledges including welfare state reforms amidst internal party dynamics balancing economic austerity with populist demands.

Green Party Leadership Election Insights: Stuart shares his thoughts on leadership candidates focusing on effective communication strategies needed ahead of general elections.

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 68 - Council's botched traveller eviction, school farm closure fears and special guest, former KCC leader Roger Gough

Welcome to the latest episode of 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 Kent, featuring interviews with decision-makers and analysis of policies impacting our lives.

• A deep dive into why Kent missed out on becoming part of the first wave in government’s local reorganisation.
• Former KCC leader Roger Gough shares his thoughts on the future of devolution in Kent following a major setback.

• Analysis of Medway Council’s failed attempt to evict travellers from Wigmore Park & Ride.
• Insights into court decisions protecting traveller communities based on human rights considerations.

• Updates on Folkestone Hive District Council's plans for refurbishing a historically significant town centre building, formerly Debenhams.

• Discussion around New Line Learning Academy's temporary farm closure near Maidstone and its implications for special educational needs students.

• Coverage of Sittingbourne MP Kevin McKenna speaking about necessary reforms to outdated mental health legislation dating back to 1983.

Westminster Watch: Senior news editor Nikki White covers developments at Westminster focusing on mental health reform discussions by county MPs including Dartford representative Jim Dixon advocating early intervention strategies for youth mental health care.

Roger Gough reflects candidly after losing his council seat amid Reform UK's sweeping victory. He discusses challenges faced during his leadership tenure, particularly financial strains exacerbated by national policy choices impacting local governance across social services sectors like adult care and children's services.

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 67 - Red tape woes, illegal workers and special guest, KCC leader Linden Kemkaren

Welcome to the latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential guide to local and national political matters. This week, we delve into pressing issues affecting Kent with our team of reporters and special guests.

IN THIS WEEK'S EPISODE;

Local Government Reorganisation: Reform UK's new leader in Kent, Lyndon Cameron, discusses her plans for KCC following a significant election win. We explore potential changes in local governance and how these might impact residents.

Medway Council Issues: Reporter Rob Body investigates a four-year delay on promised home improvements by social housing provider MHS Homes due to council red tape.

Illegal Employment Fines: Dan Essen covers a hefty fine imposed on a Sheppey restaurant for employing illegal workers. The Home Office's stance is discussed alongside potential licensing repercussions.

Ukrainian Flag Controversy: New KCC leader Linden KemKaran explains her decision to remove the Ukrainian flag from County Hall, sparking criticism from various quarters including Green Party members and Liberal Democrats.

Ellie Hodgson reports on her visit to Parliament advocating for fairer blue badge regulations through the "Blue Badge Battle" campaign aimed at supporting those with temporary mobility issues.

The newly appointed KCC leader shares insights into:

• Her background as a former BBC journalist.
• Transitioning from Conservative politics to Reform UK.
• Plans for improving government efficiency within KCC.

Discussion around Sir Keir Starmer’s recent immigration policy speech compared controversially by some critics to Enoch Powell’s “Rivers of Blood” speech – unpacking rhetoric versus reality in current political narratives.

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 66 - KCC under new leadership, Labour bother in Dover and special guest Cllr Mike Baldock

Welcome to the latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential guide to understanding both local and national political dynamics from a Kent perspective. This week, we dive into significant shifts in local governance and explore how these changes might impact residents.

• Election Shock: Reform UK's stunning victory at Kent County Council has reshaped the political landscape, ousting long-standing Tory figures.
• New Leadership: As listeners tune in, a new leader for KCC is likely announced. The internal politics of this inexperienced group could lead to interesting developments.

• Parking Permit Woes in Medway: A deep dive into system gaps affecting residents with exemptions facing fines due to council errors.
• Factional Conflicts in Dover District Council: Labour's internal strife threatens their slim majority as defections occur post-disciplinary actions against Councillor Jamie Pout.

• UK-India Trade Deal: Celebrated as a major economic milestone post-Brexit, expected to bolster economies by £4.8 billion annually by 2040 but criticised for potential impacts on industries and visa policies.

Former Kent County Councillor Mike Baldock shares insights on:

• His election loss amidst Reform's surge.
• Concerns about upcoming local government reorganisation plans creating larger unitaries that may dilute community representation.

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 65 - Kent goes to the polls, disorder in Dover, and Labour lets suspended councillors back in. Plus special guest Martin Baxter of Electoral Calculus

Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast, your go-to source for insightful discussions on local and national political matters. This episode delves into the complexities of predicting election outcomes amidst a landscape filled with marginal seats and dynamic party politics.

Local Election Insights: Explore the latest developments in Medway, including Labour councillors' reinstatement after suspension and legal concerns over Chatham docks.

Dover Demonstrations: A firsthand account of recent anti-immigration protests in Dover, highlighting tensions between demonstrators and counter-protesters.

Kent County Council Elections: With polls closed, we reflect on a campaign skewed by Reform UK's presence. The potential for surprising outcomes is high as counting begins.

Westminster Watch: Nikki White discusses MP Tristan Osborne's call to action against boy racers disrupting Tunbridge & Malling residents’ peace.

Polling Predictions with Martin Baxter: Renowned pollster Martin Baxter discusses voter volatility, tactical voting trends, and what this means for upcoming elections across Kent and beyond.

Reform Party's Impact: The rise of Reform UK could dramatically alter traditional voting patterns in Kent.

Voter Behaviour: Younger voters tend towards left-of-centre parties but are less likely to vote compared to older demographics.

Social Media Influence: While exact numbers are elusive, social media increasingly shapes younger voters' perceptions more than traditional news outlets.

Tactical Voting vs Protest Voting: Voters express disillusionment through varied party support rather than strict tactical or protest votes alone.

Future Political Landscape: Speculation about whether current polling reflects long-term shifts or temporary disruptions akin to historical precedents like the SDP surge in the 1980s.

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 64 - Cost of democracy, Kemi visits again, and protests planned. Plus special guest, Cllr Teresa Murray

Welcome to the latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential guide to local and national political discussions with a focus on Kent.

• Robert Boddy reports on February's by-elections in Medway.
• Discover how £60,000 was spent for only 4,225 votes cast from an electorate of over 21,000.
• The cost per vote stands at £14.30; insights into voter apathy are explored.

• Dan Esson previews a protest against immigration policies set for this weekend.
• Understand the dynamics between protesters and counter-protesters as police prepare to maintain order.

• Simon Finlay covers Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch’s visit aimed at rallying support ahead of county council elections.
• Explore potential shifts in traditionally Tory strongholds like Sevenoaks amidst rising competition from Greens and Lib Dems.

• Nikki White Highlights MP Mike Tapp’s experience with online abuse following a fire incident.

This week's guest is Councillor Teresa Murray:

1. Background & Political Journey: From trade union activism to becoming Deputy Leader of Medway Council after Labour's victory in May 2023.
2. Challenges & Achievements: Insights into her work focusing on health services improvement amid resource constraints post-austerity years.
3. Health Sector Focus: Addressing GP shortages and mental health demand spikes among younger demographics within Medway.

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 63 - Investigation reveals £20m of unspent funds, Premier Inn homes latest and special guest Labour's Roger Truelove

Welcome to another engaging episode of the Kent Politics Podcast. Here's a rundown of what's covered:

Local Politics and Funding Discussions

Introduction to Section 106 Payments: Dan opens up about his substantial investigation into Section 106 payments. These are contributions from developers intended to fund community projects like education and health. Surprisingly, Dan reveals through FOI requests that a staggering £20 million collected by Medway Council lies unspent, particularly in the health sector.

Former Premier Inn Conversion Controversy: Updates on the contentious transformation of a former Premier Inn into a 46-bedroom HMO in Gravesend. The situation became complex due to uncertainties around planning permissions, with local councils and developers struggling to navigate the legalities.

Galley Hill Road Landslip Repercussions: Recounting the two-year anniversary of the dramatic chalk cliff collapse at Galley Hill Road in Swanscombe. The aftermath continues to challenge local businesses and residents, with arduous plans needing government loans for potential resolution.

National Concerns from a Local Perspective

Energy Cost Campaigning: Nikki White discusses the rising energy costs which have prompted Eastland MP Polly Billington to advocate for a social tariff aimed at protecting vulnerable households, especially in areas like Thanet where many face financial struggles.

SPECIAL GUEST INTERVIEW

In Conversation with Roger Truelove: We share an enlightening chat with veteran local politician, Roger Trulove. From his roots in Woolwich to his integral roles within Kent politics, Roger provides rich insights into his journey, motivations, and key political opinions, including his advocacy for progressive alliances and proportional representation.

Closing Thoughts and Current Events Wrap-Up

The episode wraps with a swift run-through of other current political happenings and forecasted election outcomes, particularly focusing on the influence of Reform in Swale seats.

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.