Laura Kuenssberg: Kemi Badenoch's Image and Her Party's Future
Kemi Badenoch has solidified her public image. Now, she aims to return her party to its roots at the 2026 Conservative Conference in Birmingham's Symphony Hall—a venue that hosted aging rockers Marillion last month and will soon welcome soprano Katherine Jenkins. This marks a contrast from previous national party leader gatherings held in corporate conference centers.
Badenoch's Leadership Secure: A senior Tory remarks, "She has actually defied cynics... who initially disapproved of her leadership." Her public standing has improved, and she has developed a clear identity, with allies noting, "People now know who she is and they enjoy her interventions."
Trust in the Party Remains an Issue
While Badenoch's position is secure, Conservative MPs recognize a more significant challenge: restoring trust in the party and its brand. The shadow of previous years' chaos lingers, and Badenoch must demonstrate what it means to be conservative in today's context, competing with Labour leader Andy Burnham for popularity.
Conservative Conference Focuses on Law and Order and Welfare
The Tories' conference warm-up events include a proposal to dramatically expand prison places, echoing the party's mantra from the 1990s: "Prison works." They also plan to introduce a new "tough love" approach for young people claiming benefits. While this might not be as controversial as Peter Lilley's infamous "little list," it highlights the Conservatives' focus on controlling the welfare bill, which they consider both financially and morally essential.
Revisiting Conservative Principles
In her speeches at the conference, Badenoch will emphasize classic conservative first principles: individual responsibility, limited government intervention, concern for national debt and public spending, and a return to what they believe are fundamental conservative values. She will also disavow many policies implemented by the party during its time in office from 2010 to 2024.