In a stirring address that electrified the Conservative Party Conference, Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch deliberately echoed the spirit of Margaret Thatcher while launching a blistering attack on Labour's economic agenda.
The senior cabinet member, widely seen as a rising star and potential future leader, drew direct parallels between Thatcher's transformative policies and the current government's approach to business and regulation.
Thatcher's Enduring Legacy
Badenoch's speech paid homage to the Iron Lady's legacy, emphasising how Conservative principles of free markets and entrepreneurship remain as relevant today as during Thatcher's premiership. She argued that the party must continue to champion these values against what she characterised as Labour's interventionist approach.
'We stand on the shoulders of giants like Margaret Thatcher,' Badenoch declared to applause from party faithful. 'Her belief in aspiration, enterprise and individual responsibility still guides our mission today.'
Taking Aim at Labour's Economic Plans
The Business Secretary didn't hold back in her criticism of the opposition, warning that Labour's proposed policies would stifle economic growth and burden businesses with excessive regulation.
Her speech positioned the Conservatives as the true party of business, contrasting their approach with what she described as Keir Starmer's 'anti-enterprise agenda'. This strategic framing comes as both parties compete for the crucial business vote ahead of the next general election.
Leadership Speculation Intensifies
Political observers noted that Badenoch's prominent conference slot and commanding performance will inevitably fuel speculation about her leadership ambitions. Her ability to connect with the party base while articulating a clear conservative vision has marked her as one to watch in any future leadership contest.
The speech successfully blended traditional Tory values with contemporary policy challenges, demonstrating her appeal across different factions within the party.
As the conference continues, Badenoch's address has set a high bar for other cabinet members and solidified her position as a key voice in defining the Conservative message heading into what promises to be a fiercely contested election campaign.
