Martin Lewis has apologised to Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch after interrupting her interview on Good Morning Britain to debate student loan reforms. The money-saving expert walked onto the set during Badenoch's appearance on Monday, joining host Ed Balls in challenging her proposals.
Lewis argued that lowering interest rates would only help higher earners who can clear their debt within 30 years, while lower and middle earners would not benefit. He said increasing the repayment threshold would be more effective. Badenoch countered that her plan targets those whose debt is not decreasing, adding: 'The whole student loan system is not working properly; someone has to do something.'
Badenoch defended her apprenticeship background, stating she remembers more from it than her two degrees. She emphasised the need for reform, saying Conservatives are the only party with an answer. Lewis later described the current system as a 'nightmare', accusing the Chancellor of a 'unilateral breach of contract' by freezing the repayment threshold.
The exchange highlights growing political consensus that rising interest rates make the system unworkable. The National Union of Students recently called for an overhaul, and Labour MP Nadia Whittome revealed her £49,600 debt has only reduced by £1,000 despite top-5% earnings. Badenoch later welcomed the 'feisty debate' and offered to appear on Lewis's show.
