The Kent Politics Podcast

EP78: Former Tory MP Adam Holloway explains why he has joined Nigel Farage's Reform UK

Episode Summary

Welcome to this week's early episode of the Kent Politics Podcast. Join Simon and the team as they break down Adam Holloway’s high-profile defection to Reform UK, explore the quirky story of the self-declared president of the Free Republic of Verdis, discuss fierce opposition to new housing developments in Medway, and analyse Westminster’s latest stance on Gaza.

Episode Notes

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 78 - Former Tory MP Adam Holloway explains why he has joined Nigel Farage's Reform UK 

Episode Overview 

This week on the Kent Politics Podcast, we bring you a packed episode featuring breaking political shifts, local activism, and international intrigue—all from a distinctly Kent perspective.

• Adam Holloway, former Gravesham MP, joins us to discuss his dramatic move from the Conservatives to Reform UK.
• We meet a 20-year-old Dover resident who claims presidency over an unrecognised Balkan micronation.
• Local housing battles heat up in Medway with Labour MPs at odds with their own councils.
• Plus: Westminster Watch covers Britain's new stance on Palestine and reactions from Kent’s MPs.

Key Topics & Highlights 

🔹 Adam Holloway's Switch to Reform UK

• After 19 years as Conservative MP for Gravesham, Adam Holloway explains why he joined Reform UK.
  • He criticises the current government as "truly shocking" and believes only Reform is serious about addressing national issues.
  • Denies opportunism—claims his decision isn’t about securing candidacy but contributing to what he calls a “rescue mission” for Britain.
  • Discusses party culture changes, DEI (Diversity Equity Inclusion) debates within Tories, and his admiration for Kemi Badenoch while doubting her support base in Parliament.

🔹 Micronations: The Free Republic of Verdis

• Dan introduces Daniel Jackson—a young Dover man claiming leadership of an unrecognised country carved out of disputed land between Serbia and Croatia.
  • Despite efforts (and being banned from Croatia), legitimacy remains elusive but ambitions persist!

🔹 Housing Row in Medway

• Rob reports grassroots opposition against 750 new homes off Pump Lane; campaigners clash with council decisions despite previous victories.
  • Labour MP Naushabah Khan sides with protestors against her former council colleagues.

🔹 Dartford Toll Revenue Controversy

• Simon reveals that rising Dartford tolls could net the government £46 million extra next year—with local leaders demanding reinvestment into Kent infrastructure instead of funding projects elsewhere.

🔹 Westminster Watch: Gaza Crisis & Palestinian Statehood

• Nikki recaps:
  • PM recalls ministers amid Gaza crisis; UN warns famine looms large.
  • Sir Keir Starmer pledges recognition of Palestine unless Israel takes peace steps by September—sparking heated responses domestically and abroad.
  • Local MPs Mike Tapp and Polly Billington voice strong humanitarian concerns and call for urgent action on aid delivery.

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