In a passionate address that electrified the Conservative Party Conference, Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch summoned the enduring spirit of Margaret Thatcher, challenging her party to rediscover its radical reforming roots or risk political irrelevance.
The senior cabinet minister delivered what many delegates described as the conference's standout speech, drawing direct parallels between Thatcher's revolutionary tenure and the challenges facing modern Conservatives. "We need to be the party of change again," Badenoch declared to thunderous applause.
The Iron Lady's Shadow Looms Large
Badenoch's invocation of Thatcher came as the Tory faithful gathered in Manchester amid growing internal divisions and dismal polling numbers. Her speech served as both rallying cry and pointed critique of the party's recent direction.
"Thatcher understood that conservatism isn't about managing decline but about championing aspiration," Badenoch asserted, her words echoing through the conference hall. "She transformed Britain because she dared to challenge the consensus, and we must do the same."
Divided Party Seeks Unifying Vision
The conference unfolded against a backdrop of significant Conservative infighting, with different factions advocating competing visions for the party's future. Badenoch's speech positioned her as a potential standard-bearer for the party's right wing, emphasising tax cuts, deregulation, and what she termed "common sense conservatism."
Her performance received standing ovations from sections of the audience, though some moderate Conservatives appeared less enthusiastic about the Thatcher comparisons.
Legacy Battles and Future Leadership
Political analysts noted the significance of Badenoch choosing to align herself so explicitly with Thatcher's legacy. "This wasn't just a policy speech," observed one Westminster insider. "This was a leadership pitch, positioning herself as the heir to Thatcher's radical tradition at a time when the party is searching for direction."
The conference continues amid speculation about the Conservative Party's post-election future, with multiple potential leadership contenders using their platform speeches to outline competing visions for Tory renewal.
