25 minutes | Wednesday, 30 July 2025
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 UKAfter 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 VerdisDan 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 MedwayRob 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 ControversySimon 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 StatehoodNikki 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.Get Involved!Have your say or suggest topics/questions: 📧 kentpoliticspodcast@thekmgroup.co.ukStay updated via Kent Online or tune into KMTV’s politics show every Friday at 5pm (watch here).
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