In a dramatic House of Commons confrontation, Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch has launched a blistering attack on Nigel Farage, accusing the Reform UK leader of "stoking prejudice" with his controversial comments about veteran MP Diane Abbott.
The extraordinary intervention came during an urgent question session about racism in politics, where Badenoch didn't hold back in her criticism of the former UKIP leader's recent remarks.
Fiery Exchange in Parliament
Badenoch, who also serves as Women and Equalities Minister, told MPs that Farage's comments were "not acceptable" and represented exactly the type of discourse that undermines efforts to combat racism in political life.
"When we have people like Nigel Farage stoking prejudice against the first female black MP in this House, we have to call that out," Badenoch declared to a packed chamber.
Background to the Clash
The controversy stems from Farage's recent comments about Diane Abbott, Britain's longest-serving black MP, which many have condemned as racially charged. While Badenoch acknowledged she didn't always agree with Abbott politically, she vehemently defended her right to be treated with respect and dignity.
"She and I have different political views," Badenoch stated, "but prejudice against her is prejudice against all black women."
Political Reactions
The Commons debate revealed deep divisions across party lines, with Labour MPs largely supporting Badenoch's position while some Conservative backbenchers expressed reservations about the government's approach to addressing racism in politics.
Labour leader Keir Starmer's team welcomed Badenoch's comments, seeing them as validation of their long-standing concerns about discriminatory language in political discourse.
Broader Implications
This public dressing-down of Farage by a senior Conservative minister signals a significant hardening of the government's stance against the Reform UK leader, whose party has been gaining ground in recent polls.
The exchange also highlights ongoing tensions within British politics about how to address issues of race and representation, particularly as the country approaches a general election where these topics are likely to feature prominently.
Political analysts suggest Badenoch's strong stance could position her as a leading voice on equality issues within the Conservative Party, potentially boosting her profile ahead of future leadership contests.
