Alicia Kearns MP for Rutland and Stamford

Sep 11, 2024

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In this revealing conversation with Alicia Kearns, Conservative MP for Rutland and Stamford and currently Shadow Minister for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Alicia shares insights from her journey into politics, discusses her work as an MP and provides an in-depth analysis of several pressing national and international issues.

Alicia discusses the ongoing learning process within the Conservative Party following their recent electoral defeat and the importance of returning to core values like ethics and competence.

Coming from a politically active, left-wing family, she explains her journey from being deeply influenced by Labour ideals to becoming a Conservative MP. She reflects on her background in the civil service, working in crisis communication, counter-terrorism, and national security before transitioning to politics.

Alicia provides a candid account of the demanding and often misunderstood role of an MP, including her weekly routine, the challenges of maintaining a work-life balance, and the impact of dealing with abuse and threats.

We hear about local concerns such as the A1 road safety improvements and the controversial Mallard Pass solar farm proposal. She explains her stance on prioritising food security over using prime agricultural land for solar farms and the ethical implications involving companies accused of using forced labour.

We learn about her perspective on current national issues including immigration, waterways and sewage and healthcare system reforms particularly in regard to her efforts to improve local healthcare services.

With her background as Chair of the House of Commons Foreign Affairs Committee up until the election, we explore the critical role of parliamentary scrutiny in shaping foreign policy in regard to China, war in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas war.

We wind up with Alicia emphasising the need for public engagement and critical thinking, especially regarding national security, foreign policy, and complex international conflicts. She advocates for more open debate and education on these issues at all levels.

Alicia Kearns provides an insightful look into her life as an MP, the challenges facing the Conservative Party, and the complex issues shaping the future of the UK and its global relationships. Her dedication to her constituents, commitment to ethical governance, and passion for robust foreign policy shine throughout the episode.

Links:
https://www.aliciakearns.com/about-alicia-kearns

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Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' Bob Wells © 2020

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