Badenoch Criticizes Conservative Governance in Leadership Bid

Kemi Badenoch, a prominent figure in the Conservative leadership race, has made a bold statement about her party's governance. The shadow communities secretary, currently favored by bookmakers to succeed Rishi Sunak, asserted that the Conservatives had "talked Right but governed Left" during their tenure.

Speaking at her official campaign launch in London, Badenoch criticized the implementation of "big state" measures, such as the net zero target. This target, set by the UK government to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050, was described by Badenoch as an example of "trusting regulation rather than innovation."

The leadership contender emphasized the need for a more focused approach to governance, stating, "A government that tries to do everything will likely end up achieving nothing." She advocated for a smaller government that excels in its limited responsibilities.

On the contentious issue of migration, Badenoch took a different stance from her rivals. She refrained from setting specific targets for reducing migration, criticizing other candidates for providing "easy answers" on the matter. This approach contrasts with that of Tom Tugendhat, who pledged to reduce net migration to below 100,000 annually, and Robert Jenrick, who proposed figures in the tens of thousands.

Badenoch also addressed the UK's relationship with the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). She pointed out that other nations within the ECHR successfully deport 78% of incoming individuals, suggesting that leaving the convention might not be the solution to the UK's migration challenges.

"People who are throwing out numbers and saying 'oh, well we will leave the ECHR' and so on are giving you easy answers. That is how we got in this mess in the first place. I am not going to do that."

In her speech, Badenoch also criticized the current Labour government, accusing them of "trying to pull the wool over the eyes of the public" regarding the state of the UK's finances. She outlined her principles, which include personal responsibility, citizenship, equality under the law, family values, and truth.

The Conservative leadership race is now in full swing, with MPs returning to Westminster after the summer break. The first round of voting is scheduled for September 4, 2024, with the field of six candidates expected to be narrowed down to four by the end of September. The final result is set to be announced on November 2, 2024.

As the race intensifies, Badenoch's campaign launch at the Institution of Engineering and Technology highlighted her background as an engineer. She contrasted the approach of engineers, who "accept reality," with that of politicians who "make promises we cannot keep."

With her strong stance on governance and unique approach to key issues, Badenoch has positioned herself as a distinctive voice in the ongoing Conservative leadership contest.