Kemi Badenoch is scheduled to deliver a significant address at 11am as the lackluster four-day Conservative Party conference in Manchester draws to a conclusion. Throughout the conference, the Tories have emphasized a robust economy and secure borders as key focal points of their agenda.
During her speech on Wednesday, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch will shift the spotlight to the economy by introducing a “golden rule” strategy. This approach entails allocating half of the funds saved from budget cuts towards reducing the deficit, with the remaining half directed towards either expenditure or tax reductions to stimulate economic growth.
Despite efforts to prioritize economic stability, the party faces ongoing scrutiny regarding its fiscal management track record, particularly in light of Liz Truss’s controversial budget decisions that were deemed damaging to the economy. In response to criticisms, a senior Tory figure attempted to downplay the repercussions of Truss’s policies, dismissing claims that the economy is still suffering from their effects.
Throughout the conference, noticeable empty seats in the main hall have been a recurring observation, underscoring a subdued attendance at various key events. Furthermore, Keir Starmer took a jab at Robert Jenrick, suggesting that the embattled senior Tory is actively campaigning for leadership. Jenrick faced backlash following his comments about a lack of diversity during a visit to Birmingham, drawing condemnation from both political opponents and local figures.
As the conference draws to a close, Conservative Party chairman Kevin Hollinrake sought to downplay concerns surrounding Liz Truss’s brief tenure as Prime Minister. Hollinrake defended the party’s economic stance and dismissed suggestions that the economy is still reeling from Truss’s policies, attributing any short-term impacts to external factors such as the actions of the Bank of England.
Hollinrake expressed confidence in Kemi Badenoch’s leadership capabilities, asserting that she has the necessary qualities to address the party’s current challenges and improve its public standing. Despite rumors of internal dissent within the party, Hollinrake dismissed speculations of a leadership challenge against Badenoch, labeling such claims as common occurrences in political circles.
In a candid assessment of the party’s past governance, Hollinrake acknowledged shortcomings in welfare policy, criticizing the party for being overly lenient and failing to promote individual responsibility. He highlighted the need for a balance between providing support and encouraging self-sufficiency, citing instances where excessive government intervention may have inadvertently discouraged workforce participation.
The Tory conference was dominated by leaked remarks from Robert Jenrick, sparking controversy over his comments on racial diversity and judicial reform proposals reminiscent of the Trump administration. Jenrick’s confrontational responses to media inquiries further fueled the ongoing debate surrounding his controversial statements and policy positions.