Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch has warned voters that supporting Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party could lead to a big loss of Conservative MPs, leaving only “a few inexperienced Reform candidates” in their place.
Speaking directly to readers, Badenoch acknowledged the anger many feel about rising immigration but stressed the need for stability. She urged people to think carefully about their vote, warning that choosing Reform UK could make things worse.
Writing in the Express, Badenoch emphasized the importance of voting Conservative, saying, “Now is a time for serious politics. If people don’t vote Conservative, we will end up with many Labour MPs and only a few inexperienced Reform candidates. Farage and a few Reform MPs won’t be able to stop Labour’s plans or work hard in Parliament. The worst part is we could lose our ability to hold Labour accountable.”
She urged voters to support local Conservative candidates, stating that “all our lives depend on it.” Polls show Labour leading with 40%, Conservatives at 20%, Reform UK at 16%, Liberal Democrats at 12%, and Greens at 6%. Despite this, Reform UK might win only a few seats while the Liberal Democrats could win many more.
Badenoch expressed concern that voting for Reform UK could harm Conservative values for a long time, creating a Labour supermajority. “Many Conservative voters are thinking about voting Reform this Thursday. This could split the vote and let Labour win in places they never have before, leading to a Labour supermajority. Enough votes for Reform could mean we lose hundreds of Tory MPs while Labour takes the rest,” she warned.
Nigel Farage announced a £1 million election advertising campaign, boosted by £400,000 in new donations after a rally in Birmingham. Farage said Reform UK is becoming a major opposition voice and promised stricter control over the party, addressing past issues of racism.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer have ramped up their campaigns as the election nears. Sunak, speaking to workers in Staffordshire, admitted to voter frustration but warned that a Labour win could strengthen Vladimir Putin and make the UK an easier target for migrants. “I’m fighting hard for every vote,” Sunak said, highlighting the dangers of an unchecked Labour government.
As the election approaches, the future political landscape is uncertain. Badenoch’s message is clear: stability and experienced leadership are crucial in these times.
