Badenoch Emphasizes ‘Work’ as Her New Key Focus

Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative leader, is refocusing her party’s campaign narrative with a renewed emphasis on work. This strategic pivot comes as the political landscape shifts before the upcoming Budget on 26 November. Badenoch’s recent speech at the Royal Academy of Engineering not only addressed economic issues but also positioned the Conservatives against both Labour and Reform.

Badenoch’s Strategy: Emphasizing ‘Work’

In her 20-minute address, Badenoch emphasized the importance of work, using the term 55 times. She aimed to differentiate her party from the Labour party, suggesting they are hesitant to make tough decisions. She stated, “They are too scared and too weak to make difficult decisions,” directing sharp criticism at Labour leadership.

Policy Focus: Welfare Reform

• Badenoch criticized Labour’s welfare policies, suggesting that their approach resembles past trade union strategies.
• She pledged to strategically redirect £47 billion in savings, aiming to eliminate new taxes proposed by Labour.
• Highlighting the Conservatives’ commitment, she portrayed her party as prioritizing work over welfare dependency.

By comparing her party’s stance to that of Reform, particularly in response to Nigel Farage’s advocacy for lifting the two-child benefit cap, Badenoch crafted a narrative of conservatives versus welfare-dependent policies. She claimed that Reform is “addicted to welfare,” reinforcing her party’s dedication to economic work.

Challenges Ahead: Economic Accountability

Badenoch’s attempt to reclaim the narrative is complex, particularly given the Conservative record on welfare spending. The Institute for Fiscal Studies reports that health-related welfare spending rose from £36 billion in 2019-20 to £48 billion in 2023-24 under Conservative leadership.

As Badenoch continues to promote her vision, she faces the challenge of countering a messy fiscal history. Supporters argue that rising costs under Labour vindicate Badenoch’s readiness to confront difficult choices.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead for the Conservatives

With increasing pressure from both Labour and Reform, Badenoch’s focus on work could be pivotal. Her capacity to resonate with voters on economic issues will be critical as the party approaches the November Budget. The coming weeks will reveal whether her approach can reinvigorate Conservative support.