The Kent Politics Podcast

EP80: Freedom of speech, sewage and special guest Cllr Robbie Lammas

Episode Summary

Join Nikki, Dan and Rob this week as they explore Thanet Council’s controversial plans to fine for foul language, a Medway community’s 16-year sewage nightmare, and the ethics behind new facial recognition technology in policing. Special guest Robbie Lammas—Medway councillor and former Conservative Party chief of staff—shares insider stories from Westminster, reflects on election lessons, party brands, and his vision for local representation.

Episode Notes

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 80 - Freedom of speech, sewage and special guest Cllr Robbie Lammas 

Episode Highlights:

• Morality in Politics: The panel opens with a reflection on the importance of individual morality and moral judgement in political life, arguing that no amount of regulation can replace personal ethics.
• Council Crackdown on Foul Language: Thanet Council’s controversial plans to fine residents for abusive language via Public Spaces Protection Orders face legal challenges from free speech campaigners. Lord Toby Young and the Free Speech Union are preparing for a court battle over civil liberties.
• Sewage Nightmare in Strood: Residents at Kingsware Gardens share their 16-year struggle with persistent sewage problems, slow repairs, and frustrating management company processes. Orbit promises action but trust is low.

Special Guest Interview: Robbie Lammas (Medway Councillor & Conservative Party Insider)

• Robbie shares his journey from youth politics to Westminster, including leafleting beginnings and working as an MP researcher, special advisor, and chief of staff.
• Insights into the realities behind parliamentary roles—family-run offices, relentless networking ("never off"), and navigating party hierarchies.
• Reflections on last year’s general election campaign frustrations; lessons learned from US campaigning methods versus UK traditions.
• Discusses rising issue-based voting trends (over party loyalty), impact of migration policy on local planning demands, and whether Reform UK offers a pragmatic alternative for disaffected Conservatives.

Topical Debate: Live Facial Recognition Vans

• Home Office rolls out facial recognition technology across seven police forces (not yet Kent) to catch serious offenders. Panel explores concerns about surveillance creep vs operational effectiveness:
  • Dan argues it’s unlikely to solve core policing issues or meaningfully prevent crime.
  • Rob advocates more “bobbies on the beat” over tech solutions for true prevention.
  • Nikki weighs up privacy risks against public safety benefits—will it work as intended?