In this episode of Utter Politics, Alex Perkas and Joe Willoughby are joined by immigration caseworker Kelda Louise, who works for a charity supporting asylum seekers, refugees and others navigating the UK immigration system.

We discuss what actually happens when someone claims asylum in Britain, the work immigration charities do, asylum accommodation, access to legal advice, common misconceptions surrounding refugees, integration into British society, and the pressures facing those working within the system.

We also get into some of the biggest political debates surrounding immigration: small boat crossings, claims about asylum seekers destroying their documents, the difference between legal and illegal immigration, asylum hotels, safe routes, political rhetoric, and whether the public conversation around immigration has become increasingly hostile.

Kelda also shares her experiences working directly with asylum seekers and refugees — including the human stories that rarely make it into political debates.

Reform Watch has built a database tracking Reform UK politicians and officials across the country, documenting controversies, statements and incidents involving the party. Jack explains why he created the organisation, how it operates and what he hopes it can achieve ahead of the next general election.

We also get into the wider politics surrounding Reform UK: Nigel Farage, the legacy of Brexit, Reform’s recent scandals, the emergence of Restore Britain, the influence of social media on British politics, attacks on the media and democratic institutions, and the growing debate over the far right in Britain.

Later, we discuss the future of Reform UK, whether its support can last until the next election, foreign influence and social media, Labour under Andy Burnham, what went wrong for Keir Starmer, and whether the Liberal Democrats have missed their opportunity to become the main alternative on the British left.

Finally, Jack explains what comes next for Reform Watch and how he wants the organisation to develop ahead of the next general election.

Topics include:
Reform UK • Nigel Farage • Reform Watch • Brexit • Restore Britain • Immigration • Social Media • The Far Right • British Democracy • Media & the BBC • Labour • Liberal Democrats • Keir Starmer • Andy Burnham • UK Politics

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In this episode of Utter Politics, Alex Perkas and Joe Willoughby sit down with Adham Alkhatip, leader of the Forward Party and candidate in the Clacton by-election.

We discuss:

•  Electoral reform and proportional representation 
•  Political donations and the influence of wealth 
•  Housing, planning reform and land value tax 
•  Energy prices and renewable power 
•  Public transport and the TFL model 
•  Student loans 
•  Water companies 
•  The biggest issues facing Clacton 
•  Whether Nigel Farage can be beaten 

Throughout the interview, we challenge Adham on his policies, ask difficult questions and give him the opportunity to explain where he believes Britain needs to change. 

Do you agree with his ideas? Let us know in the comments.

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