Reform UK, Civic Pride & the Crisis of Politics | Stephen Atkinson

In Episode 4 of Turning World, Jon Egan and Keith Hitchman are joined by Stephen Atkinson for a discussion about political realignment, civic identity and the widening gap between national politics and local communities.Stephen reflects on his move from the Conservative Party to Reform UK, while exploring the pressures facing local government, the importance of civic pride and whether practical politics has been replaced by remote political management.Topics include: • Reform UK and political change • Leaving the Conservative Party • Civic pride and community identity • Jobs, growth and economic pragmatism • Remote politicians and distrust in institutions • Devolution and local governance • Lancashire’s financial rescue • Experience vs inexperience in politics • Whether Reform risks becoming “Conservative 2.0”Guest bio:Stephen Atkinson is a Lancashire councillor and political figure associated with Reform UK, with a focus on local governance, economic pragmatism and civic renewal.About Turning World:Turning World is hosted by Jon Egan and Keith Hitchman and explores politics, culture, faith and public life in an era of uncertainty and transformation.Produced by Opus Media. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.