Reform-run Kent council accused of fabricating £40m net zero savings

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Peter Walker Senior political correspondentFebruary 7, 2026 at 11:43 AM

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Reform UK-run Kent County Council is facing accusations of fabricating nearly £40 million in net zero savings. Labour MP Polly Billington alleges that claimed savings from scrapped environmental projects and delaying electric vehicle adoption are based on hypothetical projects lacking documentation or funding. Billington submitted a Freedom of Information request after Reform council leader Linden Kemkaran announced the savings in July. The council maintains the figures represent "future cost-avoidance measures," despite the projects not being approved or having business cases. Billington accuses Kemkaran of inflating savings for political gain, while the council defends its accounting practices. The controversy raises questions about Reform UK's governance and financial management in Kent.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Labour Party 40% Nigel Farage 50% Kent ×370% Polly Billington ×475% Reform UK ×380% Linden Kemkaran ×585% Kent County Council ×690%

Keywords

net zero savings 100% kent council 90% reform uk 80% council budget 70% false claims 70% budget plans 60% political accountability 60% cost avoidance 50% local government efficiency 50%