In her first appearance on Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg since becoming Tory leader, Kemi Badenoch addressed Labour’s Budget and challenged recent spending promises. She began by acknowledging past issues within the Conservative Party, but quickly shifted focus to her future plans, aiming to redirect attention to her vision.
Badenoch Criticizes Labour’s Spending Promises
Badenoch took a critical stance on Labour’s recent Budget announcement, questioning the long-term impact of the party’s plans. “If you tell the public that you’re going to spend this and spend that and everything is going to be fine, of course people will vote for it,” she said. However, she emphasized the need to examine the “page two” of Labour’s promises.
“Rachel Reeves talks about investing more in the NHS and public services. Everyone wants that,” Badenoch acknowledged, “but on page two, it means more debt, less money for the next generation, and potentially a business exodus.” Badenoch suggested that while Labour’s promises may sound appealing, they come with hidden costs that could harm future economic stability.
Debate Over National Insurance Increase
When asked by Kuenssberg about Labour’s proposal to fund the NHS through an increase in employer National Insurance, Badenoch was quick to dismiss the idea. “I don’t accept the premise of that question,” she responded, noting that the Conservative government didn’t tie National Insurance hikes directly to NHS funding. She pushed back against the notion that there is a “binary” choice between supporting the NHS and maintaining low employer taxes.
Badenoch Refutes Labour’s Economic Claims
Badenoch also addressed Labour’s claims regarding an alleged financial gap in the Budget. “Look at what the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) said about the Budget. There’s no £22 billion black hole – that’s dishonest,” she stated firmly. She argued that most of Labour’s proposed employer National Insurance increases would be absorbed through lower wages and higher prices, which she said would ultimately hurt working people.
Future Vision for the Tory Party
Badenoch made it clear that, as the new leader, she intends to focus on sustainable economic policies that address immediate needs without compromising future generations. She highlighted her commitment to responsible fiscal policies, hoping to draw a contrast between Labour’s promises and her party’s approach.
Her comments suggest she will continue to challenge Labour’s budget proposals while promoting a Conservative plan that emphasizes economic prudence over immediate spending increases.
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