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Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has responded to recent criticism regarding free speech within her party, addressing concerns raised after James Evans, a former senior Welsh Tory, was expelled for engaging with the Reform party. Evans, who also lost his position as shadow health secretary, voiced disappointment over what he described as the party’s unwillingness to tolerate dissent or criticism.
Evans expressed that it was “a sad day when the party does not allow free speech or criticism” following his removal. During a visit to the Senedd, Badenoch stated that the Conservative Party remains open to diverse opinions, emphasizing her willingness to listen to those with differing perspectives. However, she made it clear that members collaborating with parties perceived as adversaries to the Conservatives would not be welcome.
Prior to his dismissal, Evans refrained from confirming whether he planned to join Reform during a BBC Wales interview, in which he also criticized Badenoch. He argued that the Conservative Party “needs to change” and took issue with Badenoch’s statement that “Britain isn’t broken.” He remarked, “I don’t think that comment from Kemi is a right one,” and added, “Britain is broken… we have to be honest about some of the things we got wrong,” referencing past actions by the UK Conservative government.
Following his ousting on January 20, Evans issued a statement expressing his disillusionment with the current direction of the Conservative Party, saying it no longer aligns with his “conservative values and beliefs.” Now sitting as an independent member for Brecon and Radnorshire, he lamented the party’s narrowing tolerance for a “broad church of views and opinions.” Badenoch, in turn, supported Darren Millar, the Tory Senedd leader who removed Evans, affirming that while she values free speech, those engaging with rival parties have no future within the Conservatives. She also acknowledged having taken similar disciplinary actions herself
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