In a bombshell leaked recording, Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch has launched a blistering attack on Reform UK, accusing the rival party of deliberately "stoking racial division" for political gain.
The cabinet minister's controversial comments were captured during a private conversation with a Tory activist in Essex, revealing deep concerns within Conservative ranks about Reform's impact on their electoral fortunes.
'Damaging to Our Country'
Ms Badenoch didn't hold back in her assessment, stating that Reform's approach to immigration was not just politically problematic but "damaging to our country." She expressed particular concern about how their rhetoric could poison community relations across Britain.
"What they're doing is stoking racial division and making people feel that this is an acceptable topic of conversation," the equalities minister declared in the recording obtained by The Independent.
Conservative Election Fears
The timing of the leak couldn't be more sensitive, with Reform UK under Nigel Farage's leadership consistently polling ahead of the Conservatives in some surveys. Ms Badenoch acknowledged the direct threat, suggesting Reform's strategy could cost the Tories crucial seats in the upcoming general election.
Her comments reveal the intense anxiety within Conservative headquarters about vote-splitting on the right, potentially handing victory to Labour in numerous constituencies.
Political Fallout
While Ms Badenoch stopped short of accusing Reform of outright racism, her characterization of their tactics as divisive represents the strongest criticism yet from a senior government figure.
The leaked audio provides a rare glimpse into the private concerns of top Tories as they battle on two fronts against both Labour and their populist rivals to the right.
As the election campaign intensifies, this revelation is likely to fuel further tensions between the Conservative establishment and the insurgent Reform movement, setting the stage for a bitter battle for the soul of the right-wing vote in Britain.
