The Conservative Party’s top financial official delivered a crucial address at the Tory Party Conference to a noticeably sparse audience. Sir Mel Stride proposed extensive cuts to welfare spending and significant reductions in civil service roles if his party regains power. Observers at the event in Manchester remarked on the lower attendance compared to previous years, with many supporters opting to stay away.
While the auditorium had a full capacity during Kemi Badenoch’s opening speech on Sunday, it has since remained largely empty. The lack of protesters outside the conference area on Monday morning was stark contrast to the past, where hundreds would typically gather.
Attendee Dr. Ellie King expressed a somber sentiment about the subdued atmosphere, likening it to a bereavement process. She noted the stark contrast in energy compared to previous years, emphasizing the subdued tone of this year’s event.
Recent polling data from YouGov indicates a mere 11% of the British public believe the Conservative Party is currently fit to govern, with projections suggesting they might secure only 45 seats in a hypothetical election. The surge in popularity of Reform UK poses a challenge for Mrs. Badenoch, with analysts suggesting Nigel Farage could be a strong contender for the prime ministerial position.
At a fringe event, polling expert Sir John Curtice advised Conservative delegates to focus on rebuilding support before aiming for a return to government. He highlighted the concentrated support for the Liberal Democrats compared to the more dispersed Conservative vote, pointing out the potential for the former to secure more seats in future elections.
Sir Mel underscored the Conservative Party’s stance against Reform UK’s spending policies, criticizing their unfunded commitments and advocating for personal responsibility in funding family expenses. He warned against the return to nationalization and increased state control, labeling Reform UK as a left-leaning entity.
Emphasizing the Conservative Party’s role in holding Reform UK accountable, Sir Mel reiterated the party’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and criticized what he perceived as empty promises from the opposition. He highlighted the Conservative Party’s stance as a counterbalance to what he views as excessive spending and debt proposed by Reform UK.