Following speeches by Nigel Farage on Reform’s tax plans and Rachel Reeves on Budget preparations, Kemi Badenoch delivered the final economic address of the day. Speaking at the Royal Academy of Engineering, Badenoch aimed to recapture the spotlight for the Conservative Party as anticipation builds toward the 26 November Budget.
In today’s multi-party political landscape, Badenoch recognizes that simply criticizing Labour is not enough. With the Conservative Party no longer controlling the right-wing narrative exclusively, she has directed her focus toward Reform as a key political opponent.
Badenoch chose welfare as her main area of emphasis, highlighting it as a critical battleground. This follows the difficulties the government faced during the summer when backbenchers blocked Liz Kendall's proposed savings. The Conservative leader views welfare reform as one of her party’s strongest points moving forward.
"In the era of multi-party politics, it is no longer good enough for Badenoch to simply bash Labour. With the Tories no longer commanding a monopoly on the right, she must focus her attacks on Reform too."
Author’s summary: Kemi Badenoch is redefining Conservative strategy by concentrating on welfare reform and challenging both Labour and Reform ahead of the November Budget.