The Kent Politics Podcast

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137

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Oct 2026

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Welcome to The Kent Politics Podcast, your go-to source for insightful discussions on local and national political matters.

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60 recent

October 15, 202629 min

EP 138: Danny Dyer’s ‘poo’ petition to Parliament and Nigel Farage pays a visit to Kent in plan to ‘overhaul’ immigration system

Kent Politics Podcast – Show Notes Episode highlights: • Danny Dyer takes petition to Parliament Danny Dyer went to Parliament to hand over a petition signed by more than 340,000 people calling for all water companies to be brought back under public control. The actor was joined by Sittingbourne and Sheppey MP Kevin McKenna and the SOS Whitstable co-founder Ed Acteson. The petition argues that privatisation has failed both the public and the environment. • Out-of-hours GP service to move from hospital An out-of-hours GP service will no longer be based at a hospital. MedOCC has moved from Medway Maritime hospital in Gillingham to MCH House at Gillingham Business Park. Anyone in need of assistance after their surgery has closed is asked to continue to ring 111. • Nigel Farage makes key immigration pledge in Kent The MP attended an event in Lympne, near Hythe, to announce a key new Immigration policy for his party Reform say if they get into power they will suspend the right for anyone to seek refuge in our country. He also says if they get into power they will suspend the right for anyone to seek refuge in our country. Key Interviews & Opinions: • Former Reform turned Restore Britain councillor Oliver Bradshaw lifts the lid on what it was like working under the current administration, his hopes for Restore Britain at the ballot box and his vision for sorting out the immigration issues affecting the county. Send questions or comments via email or voice note to Kent Politics Podcast. Listener Engagement: Have your say! Have your say! Send questions or comments via email or voice note to Kent Politics Podcast. Stay Connected: For more updates: • Visit our Politics page • Sign up for our weekly newsletter • Watch KMTV's politics show every Friday at 5pm Thank you for tuning into this week's episode. Stay informed with ongoing stories throughout the week on our platforms. 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. 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.

October 9, 202625 min

EP137: Medway First, Asylum Housing & Eviction Row

Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Episode Title: Is Medway Ready for Change? Host: Robert Boddy Guests: Daniel Esson, Nikki White, Matt Ramsden, Andrew Lawrence Episode Overview In this episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, host Robert Boddy steps in for usual host Simon Finlay. Joining him are senior news editor Nikki White, senior editor Matt Ramsden and reporter Daniel Esson to discuss pressing issues affecting Medway and surrounding areas. Key Topics Discussed: Dartford MP Jim Dixon's Unusual Case: Nikki White highlights the story of Bob Thwaites whose caravan was bulldozed on Swanscombe Peninsula. Legal complications around adverse possession rights and support from local MP Jim Dixon. HMOs and Asylum Seekers: Daniel Esson delves into plans by the Home Office to house asylum seekers in Walderslade. The debate over HMO permissions leading to an Article Four direction vote by Tunbridge council members. Medway Commercial Group Fraud Investigation: Matt Ramsden shares updates on a long-running investigation shelved by police after years of inquiry. Medway Council’s decision to report Kent Police to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). Special Guest Interview: Andrew Lawrence – Founder of 'Medway First': A lifelong Conservative who left the party to focus on local issues through his new political initiative. Discussion about why he believes established parties have failed Medway over recent decades. Insights into 'Medway First' policies aimed at addressing civic pride, financial management, and inward investment. Notable Quotes: "Has anything got better over the last ten or fifteen years? There is this creeping running down of Medway." – Andrew Lawrence "I'm focusing on Medway's problems… Reform are not the answer." – Andrew Lawrence Listener Engagement: Listeners are encouraged to share their thoughts or suggest topics via email at kentpoliticspodcast.com. Additional Resources: Visit Kent Online for more political stories throughout the week. Tune into KMTV’s politics show every Friday at 5 PM or watch it online at 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

October 1, 202610 min

EP136: Illegal Worker Crackdown, £42m Flood Defences & Russian Threats to Kent

Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Episode Highlights: Illegal Employment Fines: Three Medway businesses fined a total of £220,000 for employing illegal workers. Businesses include Ocean Hand Car Wash, Fireaway Pizza, and Thaal Indian Kitchen. Joint operations by local councils and agencies to ensure legal trading environments. Flood Defence Project Completion: New £42 million flood defences near Tunbridge now operational. Designed to protect thousands of homes and businesses from climate change-related risks. Features expanded live flood storage area capable of holding around 7.4 million cubic metres of water. Concerns Over Water Supply & Development Plans: MPs request urgent meeting with Housing Minister over development plans impacting water supplies in Tunbridge and Malling. Government insists on progressing with the draft local plan despite concerns about infrastructure adequacy. Security Threats & Russian Concerns: Potential security threats highlighted following incidents involving plane safety and arrests near an RAF base. Former serviceman Henry Bolton warns about vulnerabilities at the Port of Dover amid potential Russian hostilities. Key Interviews & Opinions: Councillor Jamie Henderson discusses the importance of new flood defences in adapting to climate change impacts on waterways in Kent. Former military intelligence officer Philip Ingram provides insights into security measures at UK ports amidst rising tensions with Russia. Listener Engagement: Have your say! Send questions or comments via email or voice note to Kent Politics Podcast . Stay Connected: For more updates: Visit our Politics page Sign up for our weekly newsletter Watch KMTV's politics show every Friday at 5pm Thank you for tuning into this week's episode. Stay informed with ongoing stories throughout the week on our platforms. 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.

September 24, 202624 min

EP135: Kent on Alert, New Council Homes & Dyer’s Water Campaign

Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Episode Highlights New Council Homes in Medway : Explore the opening of 81 new council homes across Gillingham and Twiddle, aiming to reduce social rent waiting times. Discover how these developments honour local political figures like Paul Harriot. Housing Targets Across Kent : Dive into the performance of various councils under increased housing targets set by the government. Learn about successes and challenges faced by districts such as Sevenoaks, Maidstone, Dartford, and Dover. Water Pollution Concerns : MP Tony Vaughan discusses water pollution issues affecting beaches in Folkestone Hythe and Romney Marsh. Hear about his Clean Our Beaches campaign and recent public protests led by celebrities like Danny Dyer for public ownership of water. Special Segment Interview with Henry Bolton on Security Threats: Join Nikki White as she interviews international security expert Henry Bolton on potential threats from Russia. Discusses airspace violations, cyber-attacks, and military activity that may impact national security. Key Points: Increased Russian hybrid warfare tactics. The importance of securing critical infrastructure in places like Kent. Potential geopolitical consequences if tensions escalate further. Get Involved! Have a topic or question for our panel? Reach out via email or send a voice note to kentpoliticspodcast@kmgroup.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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

September 17, 202611 min

EP134: Medway’s £360m Crisis, Kent Honours & George Low Justice

Kent Politics Podcast - Episode Show Notes Episode Highlights: Budget Woes: Medway Council faces significant financial challenges with a potential £360 million shortfall over the next five years. The council is in discussions with the government for additional support. Honouring Heroes: The Brigade of Gurkhas has been awarded the Freedom of Kent, recognising their distinguished service to the UK. This honour reflects their esteemed presence and contributions. Controversial Comments: Dartford Grammar School for Girls becomes a topic of discussion following comments by MP Rupert Low on ethnic demographics, sparking local political debate. Justice for George Low: Ten years after his tragic murder in Cyprus, efforts continue to bring those responsible to justice. Local MPs are pushing for international cooperation to resolve this case. Key Discussions: Medway Council's Financial Challenges Medway Council struggles with budget deficits despite previous government support. Efficiency measures and increased charges have been implemented but further assistance might be required due to ongoing financial pressures, particularly from social care services. Recognition of Gurkhas Kent County Council honours the Brigade of Gurkhas, highlighting their elite military history and cultural impact within Kent communities. This ceremonial recognition underscores public admiration without conferring any formal privileges. Dartford Grammar School Controversy Rupert Lowe’s remarks about demographic changes at Dartford Grammar School stir controversy among local politicians who defend inclusivity while criticising divisive rhetoric as harmful and unrepresentative of community values. Ongoing Fight for Justice: George Low Case A decade since George Low’s murder, his family continues seeking justice as suspects remain free in Turkey. Recent parliamentary debates aim to renew diplomatic efforts between Cyprus and Turkey towards legal resolution. Get Involved: Have thoughts or questions? Reach out via email or voice note at kentpoliticspodcast@thekmgroup.co.uk Stay Updated: For more politics news visit Kent Online daily or sign up for our newsletter. Watch KMTV's Politics show every Friday at 5pm here . 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.

September 10, 202615 min

EP133: Medway First, Council Chaos & Gravesend Ferry Fight

Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Episode Highlights: Introduction: Host Nikki White, Senior News Editor with the KM Group, introduces this week's episode filled with political drama in Kent. Medway Political Shake-Up: Councillor Andrew Lawrence resigns from the Conservative Party to form his own party, Medway First. Aims for more local accountability and challenges current political dynamics. Plans to contest future elections despite a halt on North Kent unitary plans. Ferry Service Revival Efforts: Prime Minister supports reinstating Gravesend to Tilbury ferry service. The service was halted due to funding issues but may see a revival with government backing. Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) Pause: Angela Rayner announces a pause on reorganisation plans affecting all of Kent's councils. Concerns over wasted efforts and uncertainty among council staff are discussed. Insightful Commentary: Local democracy reporter Simon Finlay shares insights into the unexpected LGR pause. Discusses potential reasons behind the decision including cost concerns and upcoming general election implications. Discussion Points: Medway First Formation: Examines motivations behind Andrew Lawrence's new party amidst regional governance changes. Transport Connectivity: Importance of restoring critical transport links like the Gravesend-Tilbury ferry for local constituents is highlighted by national leaders' support. Impact of LGR Pause: Explores effects on council operations and employee morale following sudden policy shifts; speculates future governmental strategies post-review period. Political Speculations & Consequences: Potential outcomes for existing councils and Reform UK's position in upcoming electoral contests given recent developments. Get Involved: Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via email at kentpoliticspodcast@thekmgroup.co.uk or send us a voice note! 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.

September 3, 202657 min

EP132: Green Victory, Reform Row & Dover By-Election Shock

Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Hosts: Dan Esson, Simon Finlay, Robert Boddy Guest: Tris Osborne (Labour MP for Chatham and Aylesford) Episode Summary: In this episode of the Kent Politics Podcast , hosts Dan Esson, Simon Finlay, and Robert Boddy dive into the latest political happenings across Kent. They discuss a notable district council by-election in Dover that saw an unexpected Green Party victory due to vote splitting among right-wing parties. The team also explores disciplinary issues within Medway Council involving Councillor Chris Spalding's conduct. Later on, they welcome Labour MP Tris Osborne to discuss his views on recent leadership changes within the Labour Party and local government reform proposals. Key Topics Discussed: Dover By-Election Analysis: Unexpected Green Party win due to split votes between Reform UK and Restore Britain. Implications of right-wing vote fragmentation in traditionally conservative areas. Medway Council Disciplinary Actions: Details surrounding Councillor Chris Spalding’s breaches of conduct. Impact of sanctions on his ability to perform council duties effectively. Leadership Changes & Shadow Cabinet Appointments: Discussion on Tom Tugendhat as Shadow Foreign Secretary. Katie Lamb’s new role as Shadow Housing Secretary amidst housing challenges in Kent. Interview with Tris Osborne: His perspective on Keir Starmer's resignation as an MP. Thoughts on Andy Burnham’s leadership style compared to Starmer's tenure. Views on local government reforms including unitary authority restructuring plans for Kent. Local Government Funding Challenges: Financial strains from social care responsibilities discussed with potential solutions hinted at by Andy Burnham's policies. Noteworthy Quotes: "Reform UK's challenge remains significant despite their sliding poll numbers." – Tris Osborne "Social care needs massive reform; we can't be held hostage by private sector pricing." – Tris Osborne Call-to-Actions: Subscribe to our weekly Kent Politics Newsletter for more insights and updates. Tune into KMTV’s Politics show every Friday at 5pm or catch up online at kmtv.co.uk . Share your thoughts or questions about local politics via email at kentpoliticspodcast@thekmgroup.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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

August 27, 20269 min

EP131: Food Van Fight, Housing Row & Poppy Taxi Debate...

The Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Episode Highlights: Community Support for The Creeping Fig: In Medway, local food van "The Creeping Fig" faces uncertainty due to a new housing development. Owners Sam Macklin and Georgia Rollinson-Slater seek council support after being excluded from future plans. A social media campaign has rallied community backing, prompting Medway Council to arrange discussions. Tributes to Rodney Chambers: Former leader of Medway Council, Rodney Chambers, has passed away at age 83. Known for his significant contributions like the Rochester Riverside regeneration scheme, he was honoured with an OBE in 2011. Tributes highlight his dedication and impact on local government. Cliftonville Skate Park Plans: Cliftonville's derelict land is set for transformation into a skate park following planning application submissions. This initiative aims to provide activities for young people in the area. Dartford Housing Concerns: Cross-party unity emerges in Dartford over concerns about London councils buying new builds for affordable housing which could disrupt local allocations. Local leaders call for transparency and action against this practice. Swale Poppy Row: Taxi firm owner Neil McLennan clashes with Swale Council over poppy displays on cabs following a complaint about policy non-compliance. Supported by Councillor Richard Palmer and MP Kevin McKenna, calls are made for policy review at upcoming licencing committee meeting. Get Involved: Have your say or suggest topics by emailing or sending voice notes via Kent Politics Podcast . Stay Connected: Visit our Politics page and subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Watch KMTV's Politics show every Friday at 5pm live or on-demand at 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

August 20, 202611 min

EP130: Violence Against Women, AI Data Centres & Virgin vs Eurostar

Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Episode Highlights: Violence Against Women and Girls: Maidstone Council pledges £250,000 to address violence against women and girls. A community project involving 1,250 participants reveals significant safety concerns. The council is implementing recommendations from a diverse group of 37 residents. AI Data Centre Controversy in Southfleet: Proposal for a 145-acre AI data centre by Clearstone Energy sparks local opposition. Concerns over loss of greenbelt land and high water/electricity consumption. Use of Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP) status to bypass local authority decisions. Uncollected Rubbish Crisis in Medway: Residents endure uncollected rubbish for 12 weeks due to disputes between Orbit housing association and Medway Council. Health risks highlighted as vermin are attracted to the accumulating waste. Virgin Trains' Channel Tunnel Ambitions: Virgin Trains receives approval for track access through the Channel Tunnel, aiming for services by 2030. Potential economic boost predicted with reintroduction of continental connections at Ashford and Ebbsfleet stations. UK's Hottest Summer on Record: Impact on communities like Rochester facing additional challenges such as uncollected waste during extreme heat conditions. Get Involved: Share your thoughts or questions about local or national government topics via email or voice note at kentpoliticspodcast@thekmgroup.co.uk. Stay Updated: Visit Kent Online for more political news stories throughout the week. Tune into KMTV’s Politics show every Friday at 5 pm or watch on demand at 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

August 13, 202612 min

EP129: Orchard Battle, £42m Overspend, Water Supply & Climate Change

Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Episode Highlights: Housing Developments and Water Supply Concerns: Discussion on the challenges of building new housing developments in areas with insufficient water supply. The potential role of Section 106 agreements is explored to ensure developers contribute to necessary infrastructure. Medway Orchard Development Controversy: A campaign reignites against a proposed development of 825 homes on an orchard in Rainham, Medway. The Save Our Orchards group, supported by MP Naushabah Khan, continues its fight due to concerns over traffic and infrastructure impact. Social Care Financial Strain in Medway: Councillor Vince Maple addresses the financial pressures facing Medway Council's social care services, spending over £1 million daily. Calls for government support are highlighted as overspend projections reach nearly £50 million. Water Companies as Statutory Consultees: Cross-party calls for South East Water to have a legal say in planning applications are discussed. This move aims at ensuring sustainable development regarding water and sewage provisions. Drought Challenges in Maidstone: Maidstone Borough Council leader Stuart Jeffrey outlines measures taken amidst declared drought conditions, including planting trees and providing cool spaces for residents during heatwaves. Neshaba Khan’s Response to Racist Abuse: Gillingham MP Naushabah Khan turns racist abuse into empowerment with her response highlighting her pride in being from Gillingham despite online trolls' demands she "go home." Stay Connected: For more political news updates throughout the week: Visit Kent Online Subscribe to our weekly newsletter Watch KMTV's Politics show every Friday at 5pm or on-demand at KMTV Get Involved: Share your thoughts or questions via email or voice note at kentpoliticspodcast@thekmgroup.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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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