Join us in this episode of the Kent Politics Podcast as we uncover pressing local issues and national political dynamics. From Medway Council's struggle with £24 million in unpaid council tax to the abrupt cessation of funding for a major crime-fighting initiative, our hosts Simon Finlay, Robert Boddy & Matt Ramsden dissect these critical developments. Stay tuned for Simon's interview with Tonbridge MP & Conservative Party leadership contender Tom Tugendhat.
Episode 32 - Special guest Tory leadership candidate Tom Tugendhat, council chasing £24m in lost tax, and anti-crime project loses funding
This week’s episode dives deep into local government issues across Kent, including Medway Council's unpaid council tax dilemma, a major crime-fighting initiative losing its funding, and anticipated tax rises in the October budget.
Key Topics Discussed:
Unpaid Council Tax in Medway
- **Issue:** £24 million of unpaid council tax over six years; total cumulative debt is potentially significantly higher.
- **Causes:** Rising cost of living with increasing food and energy prices making it difficult for residents to pay their taxes.
- **Council Response:** Various schemes to help struggling taxpayers but also robust measures against non-payers including repossessions.
Crime Fighting Initiative Loses Funding
- **Scheme Affected:** Immediate Justice Program aimed at tackling antisocial behaviour quickly by making offenders carry out community work within 48 hours of an offence.
- **Funding Cut By Home Office:** Initially earmarked £1 million but pulled back due to concerns about effectiveness and financial viability nationwide.
Anticipated Tax Rises in Upcoming Budget
- Prime Minister warns of tough decisions ahead due to perilous state of public finances. Labour Chancellor Rachel Reeves expected to hike taxes while aiming to protect working people amidst claims that they inherited worse-than-imagined fiscal conditions from previous administration.
Special Guest Interview: Tom Tugendhat MP
Tom discusses his bid for Conservative Party leadership post-election losses:
Key Points:
1. Importance of Leadership: Emphasises need for strong leadership at all levels amid current challenges faced by the UK under Keir Starmer's government.
2. Critique on the current Government: Claims that Starmer has failed particularly on economic fronts using misleading claims as excuses for raising taxes without transparency.
3. Migration & Small Boats Crisis: Advocates deterrent strategies like Rwanda scheme despite controversies; criticises Labour’s approach which he believes incentivises smuggling operations further endangering lives.
Additional Insights:
Tugendhat shares personal experiences from military service shaping his views on integrity and public service emphasising merit-based promotions contrary to class-based perceptions often associated with politics.