The Kent Politics Podcast

EP44: Farmer’s fury, the first Brexit domino, and Kent’s biggest solar farm, with special guest Polly Billington MP

Episode Summary

Dive into Kent's political landscape with our latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast. This week, Simon and the team explore local government intricacies and national policy impacts, featuring a retrospective on the dramatic Rochester by-election and insights into Kent's largest proposed solar farm. Keep listening for an interview with this week's special guest Labour MP Polly Billington.

Episode Notes

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 44 - Farmer’s fury, the first Brexit domino, and Kent’s biggest solar farm, with special guest Polly Billington MP

Welcome to the latest edition of the Kent Politics Podcast, your go-to source for insightful discussions on both local and national political matters. In this episode, we delve into significant events shaping Kent's political landscape, from historical by-elections to contemporary infrastructure projects.

Key Segments

1. Rochester and Strood By-Election Anniversary

• Discussion: Reflecting on the intense 2014 Rochester and Strood by-election when Mark Reckless defected from Conservatives to UKIP.
• Guests: Former candidates share their experiences amid media scrutiny.
• Insights: The impact of Emily Thornberry’s controversial tweet and its implications on Labour's working-class support.

2. Proposed Solar Farm in Romney Marsh

• Topic: South Kent Energy Park proposal—a massive solar farm covering nearly 1500 acres.
• Impact Assessment: Potential effects on local agriculture and economy discussed with stakeholders.

3. Kent County Council Financial Concerns

• Issue: Rising costs due to increased National Insurance contributions affecting social care providers.
• Political Angle: Conservative leadership at KCC voices concerns over funding gaps exacerbated by recent budget announcements.

4. Farmers' Protest Against New Tax Policies

• Farmers protest against a proposed inheritance tax that could affect rural family businesses significantly.

5.New Funding for Bus Services in Kent

• Government announces £23 million investment aimed at improving public transport services across the county.

Special Guest Interview: Polly Billington

Polly Billington shares her journey from journalism to politics as East Thanet’s new Labour MP:

• Focuses include cost-of-living issues, NHS challenges, immigration, environmental concerns, and enhancing local bus services.

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