Badenoch Criticises Labour for Lack of Spending Cuts

Kemi Badenoch spoke in central London on 20 October. She said Labour will not have the courage to make the public spending cuts she argues are necessary. She highlighted her own plan to reduce spending by £70 bn.

Badenoch compared Labour's approach to the mini‑budget of former PM Liz Truss. She said that if Labour does not balance the budget and cut spending, markets will react. She cited the 2022 mini‑budget that caused a bond sell‑off.

Labour Party chair Bridget Phillipson described Badenoch's plan as "reverse Robin Hood politics". She said it gives tax breaks to the wealthy while offering nothing to ordinary people. Badenoch said the cuts would be fair to taxpayers and future generations.

The UK Treasury will present its tax and spending plans on 28 October. The chancellor John Healey is expected to outline how defence funding will reach 3% of national income by 2030. Badenoch said Labour would call an election before 2029 if it fails to cut spending.