The Papers: Badenoch's 'bonfire of green laws' and 'Drop in global dealmaking'

In September, Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the Conservative Party in the U.K., addressed her party's annual conference in Birmingham. She presented a 95-page document titled "The Right Way," aimed at outlining principles for future governance and positioning the Tories as a reformed entity distinct from their previous image, especially after suffering their worst-ever electoral defeat in 2024.

Badenoch emphasized the party's commitment to being the "common sense" alternative to Labour under Prime Minister Andy Burnham. She dismissed criticism that her policies on welfare cuts and prison expansion might revive the Tories' historical reputation as the "nasty party," asserting instead that these measures reflect a pragmatic approach to governance.

At the conference, Badenoch also highlighted plans to scrap environmental bodies like the Environment Agency and Natural England, arguing this would streamline regulations and accelerate infrastructure projects. This move reflects her strategy of focusing on economic growth, an area where Labour has shown less emphasis compared to other political parties like Reform UK.

Badenoch's presentation was met with enthusiasm from Conservative activists and politicians who gathered at the conference venue in Birmingham. She aims to solidify her leadership and rally support for future elections by positioning herself as a leader of common sense and personal responsibility, distinct from what she perceives as Labour's less decisive approach under Burnham.