Kemi Badenoch is set to confront multiple challenges at her first Conservative Party conference as leader, as she attempts to outline a new policy direction. Despite unveiling bold policies ahead of the gathering, including plans to leave the European Convention on Human Rights and scrap climate targets, the party remains third in the polls behind Labour and Reform UK, with internal plotting to replace her.
One of the most contentious issues is her announcement to abolish the Climate Change Act 2008, replacing legally binding net-zero targets with a strategy focused on cheap energy. This has sparked a fierce backlash from senior Tories, including former Prime Minister Theresa May, who called it a 'catastrophic mistake,' and ex-Cabinet minister Alok Sharma, who warned of losing younger voters and marginal seat support.
The rise of Reform UK poses a central threat, with a YouGov mega poll suggesting Reform could win 311 seats if an election were held now. Badenoch has adopted a cautious approach, saying she will 'take time to get it right,' but some Conservatives, such as Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen, urge more urgency to 'pull our socks up.' There are also renewed talks of a plot to replace Badenoch with Robert Jenrick, with some right-wingers even floating a merger with Reform.
On immigration, Badenoch confirmed the party would quit the European Convention on Human Rights if it wins the next election, a shift from her earlier stance. She said the move is necessary to protect the border, though the policy remains divisive within the party.
