THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 42 - Schools going mixed, police misconduct, and the cost of special needs education, featuring special guest Cllr Mark Hood

In this episode, we discuss pivotal local issues like education reforms and police misconduct while also delving into broader political dynamics within the county.

Local Government Insights:

• The importance of delivering services at a community level.
• Challenges faced by councils due to insufficient funding from central government.

Education News (Robert Boddy):

• Transition of Medway's single-sex grammar schools to coeducational institutions.
• Mixed reactions from parents and educational experts on these changes.

Police Misconduct Update (Dan Esson):

• Case study of former officer Thomas Smith’s misconduct leading to his resignation and imprisonment.

Special Educational Needs Funding Crisis (Simon Finlay):

• Rising costs associated with special needs education in Kent.
• Financial pressures on the council due to overspending on high-needs students.

Westminster Watch (Nikki White):

• Kemi Badenoch’s debut as Tory leader during PMQs.
• New appointments in shadow cabinet roles impacting local MPs Helen Whately and Laura Trott.

Interview with Green Party Councillor Mark Hood discussing:

• His journey into politics through grassroots activism.
• Perspectives on devolution and local governance challenges.
• The rise of the Green Party amidst environmental concerns such as housing developments affecting green spaces.

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 with Rob Bailey 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 41 - Docklands, trolleys Budget bombshells and a broken bridge, with special guest Ashford MP Sojan Joseph

Welcome to the latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, your ultimate source for in-depth discussions on both local and national political matters. This week we explore significant developments impacting both Kent's and the UK's political landscape.

Local Government Updates:

• Chatham Docks Controversy:
  • Medway Council’s planning decision stands as Angela Rayner decides not to intervene.
  • Mixed reactions from local stakeholders including former MP Kelly Tolhurst.
• Canterbury Shopping Trolleys Debate:
  • Canterbury City Council explores increased fines for abandoned trolleys.
  • Motion passes unanimously; potential impacts on supermarkets discussed.

Infrastructure Challenges:

• Teston Bridge Closure Impact:
  • Recent damage causing traffic congestion and extended school runs.
  • Local opinions suggest need for additional infrastructure solutions.

National Political Insights – Westminster Watch:

• Analysis of Rachel Reeves' first budget emphasising investment over austerity measures:
  • No increase in income tax or employee NI contributions; focus shifts to employers’ responsibilities.
  • Significant investments planned across NHS, education, public transport, and more.

Spotlight Interview with Sojan Joseph:

• Discusses his journey from Kerala to becoming Ashford’s new Labour MP after 27 years of Conservative representation by Damian Green.
• Priorities include healthcare access improvements, economic stability efforts, road maintenance advocacy, and restoring Eurostar services at Ashford International Station.

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 with Rob Bailey 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 40 - Levelling up, pothole perils and the cost of a name change, with special guest Cllr Sean Holden

Dive into the intricate world of local politics with Simon Finlay and the team as they discuss key issues affecting Kent County Council and its political landscape.

Council Challenges & Name Changes:

• Medway's KMPT rebrands to KMMH at a cost of £250k amid criticism for long waiting times.
• The rationale behind the name change was to improve public awareness but faced backlash due to ongoing service delays.

Levelling Up Struggles in Thanet:

• Thanet District Council struggles to find private partners for their green campus project near Ramsgate Port.
• Criticism from local figures highlights mismanagement and unclear business plans hindering progress.

Pothole Problems & Funding Issues:

• Discussion on how foreign lorry traffic contributes to road damage in Kent.
• Calls for increased government funding as potholes cause significant vehicle damage according to AA reports.

Westminster Watch – Political Interference?:

• Labour Party accused by Trump's campaign of interfering in US elections; UK PM Keir Starmer downplays allegations.
• No comments yet from Kent Labour or Conservative members on this matter.

Cargo Concerns Off Margate Coast:

• Maltese vessel carrying ammonium nitrate anchored off Margate raises safety concerns; negotiations underway for unloading cargo safely.

Interview with Cllr Sean Holden:

• Discusses his decision not to seek re-election after 12 years at KCC and reflects on his career transition from journalism to politics.
• Insights into potential outcomes for upcoming council elections amidst national political shifts.
• Sean Holden’s initiatives against excessive road closures due to utility works highlighted, citing significant increases over recent years causing public inconvenience.

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 with Rob Bailey 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 39 - Medieval Manor up for sale, Dover checks delayed again and special guest Cllr Antony Hook

Dive into the Kent Politics Podcast and explore the intricacies of local governance, national affairs, and international relations. This episode unravels Medway Council's financial strategies, discusses delays in EU border systems impacting Dover, and highlights concerns over email scams in Maidstone. Plus, get insights on upcoming elections with Cllr Anthony Hook.

Medway Council's Financial Strategy:

• Proposed sale of properties like Temple Manor to counter £16 million overspend.
• Aims to raise £20 million through property sales due to cost-revenue imbalance.

Dover Traffic Concerns:

• Delayed biometric border system implementation for Schengen Area entry.
• Local leaders express relief; companies like GetLink Group show frustration over delays.

Cybersecurity in Maidstone:

• High concern over email scams leading to active measures by authorities and police.

• Upcoming budget announcement with potential tax rises addressing a £22 billion deficit inherited by Labour.

Voting & Legislation Updates

• Discussion on hereditary peers' status in House of Lords with contrasting views among Kent MPs.

Healthcare Advocacy

• Dartford MP Jim Dixon highlights sepsis awareness and healthcare support improvements for amputees.

• Reflects on early inspirations and career spanning law and European politics.
• Advocates for UK's eventual rejoining of the EU via democratic reassessment processes.

1. Critique of Vladimir Putin’s influence and call for unity against it within Europe.
2. Ambition to become official opposition amid declining Tory popularity post-coalition era (2010).
3. Push towards environmental concerns, pro-business policies, advocating proportional representation despite risks due to lower popular vote share compared with parties like Reform Party.

1. Potential coalition opportunities challenging Conservatives at upcoming KCC elections focusing efforts on areas such as Maidstone and Tonbridge Wells where they have historical strengths.
2. Collaborative discussions with other parties including Greens highlighting varied outlooks on possible outcomes amidst Conservative incumbency advantages.

Transport Secretary Louise Haig criticized after P&O Ferries controversy involving replacement of staff with cheaper agency workers abroad—tension between tackling rogue operators vs ensuring foreign investment highlighted here too!

Labour faces scrutiny regarding communication around policy changes especially concerning workers’ rights/zero-hour contracts while balancing donor relations versus traditional union backing reliance during economically complex times!

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 with Rob Bailey 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 38 - Obese children, Reform eyes KCC takeover and special guest Cllr Stanley Forecast

Welcome to another engaging episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, where we delve into both local and national political landscapes with a friendly, insightful approach. This week’s discussion features conversations with key political figures and reporters covering the intricacies of Kent County Council (KCC), Medway Council, and various local districts.

• Importance of young people engaging in politics to address issues like homeownership.

• Medway Council’s five-year plan aims to curb childhood obesity.
• Historical measures include restricting takeaway openings near schools; however, obesity rates have increased over the past decade.

• David Wimble becomes first Reform UK councillor for New Romney.
• Potential Tory defections to Reform anticipated.

• Mixed public reception with concerns about lack of clear plans on major issues like NHS and social care.

Lower Thames Crossing Delays:

• Decision postponed until May next year due to planning complexities.

Conservative Leadership Race:

• Tonbridge MP Tom Tugendhat eliminated from leadership race; implications for local representation discussed.

Profile: Stanley Forecast discusses his journey into politics as one of the youngest councillors elected at age 20. He shares insights on:

1. Political Beginnings: Passion for country led him towards a career in politics during Theresa May’s tenure.
2. Conservative Values: Personal responsibility, freedom, opportunity are core beliefs driving his political alignment.
3. Election Strategy and Experience: Overcame odds by focusing on local development issues which resonate with residents.

Future Aspirations: Forecast aims for an MP position by 2029 while maintaining focus on key conservative principles despite challenges within the party.

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 with Rob Bailey 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 37 - Rosie Duffield quits Labour, school place troubles and special guest Dartford MP Jim Dickson

• Examining the expectation for MPs to consult constituents post-election.
• Debate on triggering by-elections if significant changes occur.

• Medway's School Place Shortage: Impact of NHS recruitment on educational infrastructure demand.
• Canterbury's Public Space Management: Planters mistaken for bins leading to public criticism.

• Scrapping Ofsted’s headline ratings sparks debate; Rory Love criticises reduced transparency.

• Analysis of her departure from Labour while retaining parliamentary position.
• Discussions around potential need for a by-election.

• Tom Tugendhat’s leadership aspirations and call for Thatcher-style revolution within the party.

Jim Dickson, MP for Dartford discusses:

• Proposed improvements in traffic congestion through new Thames crossing projects.
• Enhancements in health services and crime tackling strategies.
• Views on integrity following Rosie Duffield’s resignation and ethical considerations regarding gifts to politicians.

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 with Rob Bailey 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 36 - Safer school streets, failing park and ride, and special guest Medway council’s Cllr Andrew Lawrence

Local Government Reform

• Unitary System Proposal: Debate on moving to a county unitary system to eliminate districts and consolidate resources. Discussion includes potential cost savings from reducing CEO/COO/CFO positions.

Medway School Streets Program

• Expansion Plans: Overview of the school streets program in Medway aimed at improving safety around schools by restricting car access during peak times. Public consultation is ongoing for adding more schools.

Canterbury Park & Ride Scheme

• Financial Viability Concerns: Analysis of the park and ride service's effectiveness shows significant financial losses despite environmental goals. The current administration plans further marketing efforts and discount permits to boost usage.

Road Closures Surge in Kent

• Infrastructure Challenges: Examination of increased road closures due to utility works, broadband installation, pothole repairs, etc., causing public inconvenience despite attempts to minimise disruption through enforcement measures.

• Labour Party Conference Recap
  • Keir Starmer’s Speech: Focus on change with cautious optimism about Labour's future policies including economic stabilisation, housing development plans (1.5 million new homes), NHS improvements, railway nationalisation plans.
  • Hillsborough Law Announcement: New legal duty requiring public officials’ candor during investigations with criminal sanctions for non-compliance.
  • Economic Realities: Addressing a £22 billion black hole in finances; discussing necessary but unpopular cuts like pensions/winter fuel payments.

• Interview with Andrew Lawrence
  • Background as an insurance broker turned politician inspired by Thatcherism.
  • Views on small government conservatism emphasising liberty over state control.
  • Advocacy for local income tax replacing property-based council taxes for fairer contributions towards local 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 with Rob Bailey 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 35 - Care controversy in Medway, Shop stripped of licence after assault, is Reform trying to recruit Tory councillors and special guest, the Green Party's Rich Lehmann

• Introduction: Welcome to The Kent Politics Podcast, your go-to source for insightful discussions on local and national political matters.
• Medway’s Care Crisis: Robert Boddy reports that two-thirds of children in care at Medway are from other authorities, primarily due to cheaper accommodation.
• Dartford Corner Shop Controversy: Daniel Esson discusses a Dartford shop losing its alcohol license after incidents involving illegal workers and missing CCTV footage.
• Kent County Council Elections:
  • Simon Finlay highlights potential high turnover among Conservative councillors ahead of next year’s elections.
  • Discussion on the rise of Reform UK and its possible impact on election results.

Rich shares insights into:

• His unexpected journey into politics spurred by COVID.
• The Green Party's focus on climate emergency and social justice issues.
• Election strategies for increasing Green representation in Kent County Council.

1. Green Party Growth Goals: Aiming to quadruple their seats from 4 to potentially 16 or more in upcoming elections.
2. Target Areas: Strong focus areas include Swale, Fannett, Canterbury, Dover, Sevenoaks among others.
3. Potential Alliances: Open but cautious about forming alliances with Labour or Liberal Democrats depending on election outcomes.

Rich addresses how they plan to tackle financial difficulties inherited from previous administrations if elected.

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 with Rob Bailey 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.