Kemi Badenoch outlines Conservative economic vision in Birmingham

Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch has outlined a new political vision during the party's conference in Birmingham, framing the upcoming election as a “battle for the soul of the nation.” Her platform focuses on economic growth, lower taxation, and stronger borders to differentiate the Conservatives from Andy Burnham’s Labour government.

Key economic proposals include slashing inheritance tax—specifically targeting the 40% rate on estates over £325,000—and halving employer national insurance for workers aged 21 to 24. Badenoch also emphasized the importance of home ownership and proposed measures to reduce student loan interest and encourage employment among those under 25.

Badenoch has also addressed party discipline and identity, vowing to move away from previous policies and ensuring members adhere to core party stances on issues such as leaving the ECHR and scrapping net zero targets. Despite recent polling showing the party in third place behind Labour and Reform UK, Badenoch’s personal approval ratings have seen a notable increase.