Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch has announced a major new policy pledge to abolish stamp duty if her party returns to power. Speaking at the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester, Badenoch described the plan as a key part of her economic vision to restore confidence, boost the housing market, and reconnect with voters across the UK.
In a passionate address to delegates, Badenoch said removing stamp duty would make homeownership more accessible and drive spending in related sectors like construction, interior design, and local trade. She argued that “a society where no one can afford to buy or move is a society where social mobility is dead.” The announcement drew loud cheers from party members who saw it as a bold step to energize the Conservative base after months of internal challenges.
The Tory leader also reaffirmed her “golden rule,” stating that for every pound saved, half would go toward reducing the deficit, while the rest would fund tax cuts or stimulate the economy. Her team has identified £47 billion in potential savings, including cuts from overseas aid, civil service costs, and welfare reforms. These savings would help finance her promises, such as abolishing business rates for small enterprises like cafés, pubs, and family-run shops.
Badenoch also pledged to reduce working-age welfare spending by £23 billion, allowing only those with severe health conditions to claim certain benefits. She said the policy would restore fairness to the system, ensuring benefits go to those who genuinely need them. The proposal drew sharp reactions, with critics warning it could marginalize people with mild mental health issues.
In her speech, Badenoch criticized Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and accused his government of raising taxes, weakening borders, and mishandling the economy. She also took aim at other political figures, including Nigel Farage, Jeremy Corbyn, and Sir Ed Davey, claiming they were “shaking the same magic money tree” with promises of unchecked public spending.
Badenoch argued that the UK must act boldly to stay competitive globally, pointing out that while China built five nuclear reactors, the UK was “redefining what a woman is.” She insisted her government would focus on stronger borders, cheaper energy, and economic growth, saying that previous governments had failed to match the pace of global progress.
The party leader also reiterated her plans to leave the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), scrap the Human Rights Act, and deport 150,000 illegal migrants as part of a tough new immigration agenda. Her message was clear: Britain needs to take back control of its borders, strengthen its economy, and deliver practical results for the people.
Badenoch’s speech appears to have lifted the mood within her party, with members describing it as one of the most exciting moments of the conference. Supporters believe the bold policies could help the Conservatives regain ground in the polls, though analysts warn the real challenge will lie in delivering these promises if the party returns to power.