In a blistering attack that has sent shockwaves through Westminster, Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch has accused the Liberal Democrats and Labour of engaging in what she describes as a "grubby stitch-up" designed to permanently keep Conservatives from power.
The senior cabinet minister didn't hold back in an exclusive interview, claiming the opposition parties are conspiring to overhaul Britain's electoral system purely for partisan advantage rather than democratic principles.
'Power Grab' Allegations Rock Westminster
Mrs Badenoch's extraordinary intervention comes amid growing speculation about potential electoral pact discussions between Sir Ed Davey's Liberal Democrats and Sir Keir Starmer's Labour Party.
"What we're seeing is nothing short of a power grab," the Business Secretary declared. "They're not interested in what's best for the country - they're interested in what keeps Conservatives out of government forever."
First-Past-the-Post Under Threat
At the heart of the controversy lies Britain's traditional first-past-the-post voting system, which has historically benefited the Conservative Party. Mrs Badenoch warned that changing to proportional representation would create "permanent coalition governments" and undermine political stability.
"The British people understand our current system," she argued. "It delivers clear results and accountable government. What the Lib Dems and Labour want would lead to backroom deals and messy compromises that nobody voted for."
Democratic Principles or Party Politics?
The Business Secretary questioned the opposition's sudden enthusiasm for electoral reform, suggesting their motives were purely self-serving rather than principled.
"Where was this passion for voting reform when it might have helped Conservatives?" she challenged. "This isn't about democracy - it's about desperation from parties that can't win on their own merits."
Political analysts suggest these allegations could define the battle lines for the next general election, with constitutional reform emerging as a key dividing issue between the major parties.
