Kemi Badenoch launched a sharp critique of new Prime Minister Andy Burnham in her first speech since his appointment, repeatedly questioning how he would pay for his early flurry of policies. Speaking on a rooftop terrace in central London on Thursday morning, the Conservative leader labelled Burnham's philosophy as 'cap one price and send the bill somewhere else' and accused him of offering 'small answers to big problems'.
Badenoch's evolving strategy
Even sceptics within the Conservative party acknowledge that Badenoch has grown more confident and is forging a coherent message based on economic competence. She now holds regular press conferences and lengthy media Q&As, often without a specific policy to announce, a schedule similar to that maintained by Nigel Farage last summer before his byelection campaign faltered.
However, the change in opponent from Keir Starmer to Andy Burnham presents a new challenge. Burnham, the former Greater Manchester mayor, is seen as a more media-savvy figure who can deflect criticism with self-deprecating humour, as demonstrated by his viral response to Badenoch's dismissal of him as a 'pair of eyelashes and a black T-shirt'.
Advice from senior Tories
One senior Conservative MP said Badenoch 'has to adapt – it’s like with anything when your opponent changes'. The MP noted that Burnham is 'much more likable [than Starmer], and comes with a fair degree of popularity', advising Badenoch to wait for weaknesses, such as questions over how Burnham will fund his giveaways.
The same MP praised Badenoch's message discipline, saying that despite initial concerns she would focus excessively on culture-war issues, she has instead kept the spotlight on the economy and jobs. 'When she first became leader there was a bit of a worry that she would just talk endlessly about culture-war issues. But that hasn’t happened,' the MP said.
Effectiveness of confrontational style
Badenoch's take-no-prisoners approach proved effective against former Chancellor Rachel Reeves, whom she eviscerated with startling ferocity over her budget. Luke Tryl, UK director of pollsters More in Common, noted that the strategy worked 'in part because Reeves looked so shellshocked'. However, he warned that a more relaxed opponent like Burnham might simply laugh it off, reducing the impact.
'If Burnham is seen to just laugh it off it might be less effective than against brittleness,' Tryl said. He added that he suspects both Burnham and new Chancellor John Healey will not be easily rattled.
Remaining challenges
Despite her improved personal poll ratings, Badenoch has yet to translate this into greater support for the Conservative party. Questions remain about whether her muscular rightwing approach could alienate moderate voters. The senior Tory MP acknowledged that the summer will be crucial for Badenoch to refine her strategy against Burnham, warning that 'what works in July might not by September'.
