The Kent Politics Podcast

EP54: Reform make progress, Tories receive good news and special guest Cllr Sean Holden

Episode Summary

In this week's episode , Simon and the team explores Labour's unexpected losses to Reform UK in Medway, the impact on council control, and Westminster's contentious immigration bill. We also discuss potential changes to local governance with KCC Councillor Sean Holden.

Episode Notes

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 54 - Reform make progress, Tories receive good news and special guest Cllr Sean Holden 

In this week's Episode;

Local Election Dynamics:

• Labour's mixed results in Medway with Reform UK gaining ground.
• The impact of low voter turnout on election outcomes.
• Current council composition post-elections and potential shifts in power dynamics.

Westminster Watch:

• Controversial discussions surrounding small boats crossing the Channel.
• Labour's new Border Security Asylum and Immigration Bill versus Conservative policies.

Upcoming Elections & Predictions:

• Insights into private polling predicting a shift towards Conservatives despite national trends.
• Concerns over Reform UK's influence on future elections.

Devolution Debate:

• Discussion around devolution plans being delayed or rejected for Kent compared to other counties.

Sean Holden’s Farewell:

• His reflections on his career as he prepares to retire after decades of public service.
• Views on upcoming changes within local government structures.

Notable Quotes:

1. "People tend to prefer voting against something rather than for it."
2. "The government's rocky start may lead them to be punished at both national and local levels."