The Kent Politics Podcast

EP86: Local government reorganisation, Channel Tunnel services back in Kent, and special guest Reform's Richard Tice

Episode Summary

In this week's episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, we dive into Thanet Council’s £6.1 million green campus plans, Medway’s controversial local government reorganisation, and new moves to bring back Channel Tunnel train services. Special guest MP Richard Tice from Reform UK shares his thoughts on immigration reform, public spending cuts, and why his party is shaking up national politics.

Episode Notes

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 86 - Local government reorganisation, Channel Tunnel services back in Kent, and special guest Reform's Richard Tice 

Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast!  This week, Simon and the team are joined by special guest Richard Tice (Reform UK MP) for a lively discussion on local council developments and national political shifts.  

Key Topics Discussed

1. Thanet's £6.1m Green Campus Project

• Dan dives into Thanet District Council’s ambitious plan to build an eco-friendly business hub at the Port of Ramsgate.
• Funded via Levelling Up money; aims to foster local enterprise but lacks private sector interest so far.
• Only two out of three buildings will be constructed initially—future plans remain under wraps.

2. Medway Council Reorganisation Drama

• Robert reports on Labour-led Medway pushing ahead with costly reorganisation plans despite fierce Tory opposition.
• Conservatives label it a "vanity project" and challenge transparency over consultation with key services like police and schools.
• Decision called in for scrutiny—but Labour holds committee majority.

3. The Push for Channel Tunnel Train Services in Kent

• International train stops at Ashford suspended since Covid; campaign intensifies to reinstate them.
• Local MPs lobby regulators for competition against Eurostar, claiming huge economic benefits (£2.7bn boost & 500k extra visitors).
• Kent County Council planning events to promote the county as a tourist destination—details embargoed!

Special Guest Interview: Richard Tice (Reform UK)

Richard Tice shares his views on Reform UK's surge in popularity:

“We’re talking about real issues that matter—immigration, high energy bills, government waste.”

Immigration & Border Control

Tice outlines bold policies if Reform leads government:

• Leave European Convention on Human Rights
• Scrap Human Rights Act
• Enact robust detention/deportation laws

He claims current systems allow “lefty judges” too much power over border policy.

Economic Vision

Promising deep cuts to public sector waste and quangos; proposes performance-related tax cuts funded by savings from axing inefficient spending.

Electoral System Debate

Despite rising poll numbers, Reform remains committed to proportional representation—even while competing under first-past-the-post rules.

Local Impact in Kent

With polling suggesting major gains across Kent’s parliamentary seats—including potential upsets—the party is keen to showcase cost-saving reforms already underway at council level (e.g., early loan repayments).

Panel Analysis: Can Reform Deliver?

Dan & Robert debate whether mass deportations or radical immigration reform are feasible—or politically palatable—for mainstream voters. Legal hurdles and state capacity pose big challenges; some policies may need softening before election day.

Labour’s own review of indefinite leave-to-remain rules could shape future debates—and possibly take heat off Reform’s more controversial proposals.

Listener Call-Out!

Have questions or topics you want covered? Email or send a voice note: kentpoliticspodcast@thekmgroup.co.uk

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