The Kent Politics Podcast

EP93: Council office may become HMO, is Labour seriously getting rid of Starmer? and special guest former KCC leader Roger Gough

Episode Summary

In this week's episode, join Simon and the team as they unravel the complexities surrounding local government reorganisation, delve into the potential sale of a major office by cash-strapped KCC, and explore rumours swirling around Westminster about Keir Starmer's leadership. With special guest Roger Gough, former leader of Kent County Council, gain insider insights on Reform UK's challenges and what lies ahead for Kent politics.

Episode Notes

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 93 - Council office may become HMO, is Labour seriously getting rid of Starmer? and special guest former KCC leader Roger Gough 

This episode features special guest Roger Gough, former leader of Kent County Council, discussing the challenges facing Reform UK at a local level and potential national implications.

Key Topics Discussed:

Reform UK's Performance:

• Examining how Reform UK's control over councils is perceived nationally.
• The significance of their performance in flagship areas like Kent.

Kent's Local Government Reorganisation:

• Insights into past reorganisation efforts in the late '90s with Medway's transition to a unitary authority.
• Current plans for further restructuring across the county.

KCC Financial Strategies:

• Possible sale of Invicta House for housing purposes amidst budget constraints.
• Implications of such sales on local communities and governance.

National Labour Party Dynamics:

• Speculation around Keir Starmer’s leadership amid declining approval ratings.
• Potential challengers within Labour party ranks including Wes Streeting and Angela Rayner.

Special Guest:

Roger Gough
Former Leader of Kent County Council shares his views on:

• The current administration under Reform UK.
• His experiences post-leadership focusing on advisory roles within local government frameworks.

Noteworthy Quotes:

"It was always going to be difficult… but I don’t think they help themselves by suggesting there were simple answers." – Roger Gough

"Adult social care is always going to be the rising cost that will make it tricky to set a balanced budget." – Panel Discussion

Listener Engagement:

Have questions or topics you want us to explore? Email us at KentPoliticsPodcast@thekmgroup.co.uk or send a voice note!

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