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Political reporter Brian Wheeler reported that Kemi Badenoch, in her first conference speech as party leader, made a surprising announcement that the next Conservative government would eliminate stamp duty on main homes. This declaration garnered a standing ovation from Tory activists in Manchester, with Badenoch emphasizing that this move would aid in achieving the dream of home ownership for millions and create a fairer and more aspirational society. The speech was filled with new policies aimed at setting clear differences from opponents, leading to hopes of garnering political attention.
Under scrutiny to deliver a career-defining speech and quell speculation of a leadership challenge, Badenoch’s 45-minute address was well-received by the energetic audience in the hall. In contrast to other speeches throughout the week, her address focused on the weaknesses of the Labour government, particularly criticizing Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership as “weak and directionless.” Badenoch’s revelation on scrapping stamp duty was strategically saved for her speech, highlighting the negative impact this tax poses on the housing market and society’s social mobility.
Stamp duty, a tax paid by property buyers over £125,000, was a crucial topic in Badenoch’s speech, promising to remove it entirely on primary residences. Despite the estimated costs attached to this policy shift, Badenoch assured that the funds would be sourced from planned welfare budget savings and foreign aid adjustments. As Badenoch continued to highlight the party’s renewed leadership direction and commitment to making tough decisions, she also outlined additional policies such as scrapping business rates, boosting police stop and search efforts, and closing down “rip off” university courses.
In her address, Badenoch emphasized the Conservative Party’s vitality in amending the country’s “broken model.” Her speech resonated with the audience through commitments to cut welfare spending and withdraw from the European Convention on Human Rights. Acknowledging the challenges posed by Reform and dwindling public opinion, Badenoch stressed the need for the Conservative Party’s revitalized leadership to make bold and tough decisions for the betterment of the country, setting a clear path forward
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