Conservatives Launch Local Election Campaign
The Conservative Party, described by Kemi Badenoch as "the only party with a plan," has officially launched its campaign for the upcoming local elections.
On 7 May, voters will participate in elections across 136 of the 317 local councils in England.
Badenoch's Rally Speech in London
Speaking at a rally in London, Badenoch emphasized the choice facing voters between parties that are "whingeing on" and the Conservatives, whom she characterized as "a party that can actually fix things."
She outlined key Conservative commitments including cutting the welfare bill, reducing business rates, and recruiting 10,000 additional police officers.
Despite the Conservative Party's challenges in national opinion polls since the 2024 general election, Badenoch expressed confidence that her party was "coming back."
Criticism of Other Parties and Conservative Resolve
Addressing supporters, Badenoch criticized other parties for failing to "do the work" necessary to address the country's issues. She asserted that the Conservatives possess the "courage, the competence and the team" required to "get Britain working again."
"Not everyone" would approve of their plans but added: "That's ok."
"We are no longer going to try to please everyone all the time.
"We have learned many lessons. We have acknowledged and apologised for mistakes that were made on tax, on immigration, but we cannot leave our councils and our country in the hands of third-rate people who do not know what they are doing."
Business Rates and Wider Policy Proposals
The Conservative Party's local election manifesto includes a promise to exempt retail, hospitality, and leisure businesses in England from business rates, up to an annual limit of £110,000.
Badenoch also discussed broader policies that would be pursued if the Conservatives won a general election. These include cutting environmental taxes to lower energy bills and abolishing stamp duty.
Policing Commitments
Regarding law enforcement, Badenoch pledged an £800 million investment to recruit 10,000 new police officers. She emphasized a focus on crime prevention and enforcement.
"I've got a message for shoplifters, phone thieves, violent thugs your days of getting off scot-free are numbered," she stated.
Details of the Local Elections
Approximately 5,000 council seats will be contested across 136 councils on 7 May. Councillors elected are responsible for local services such as social care and rubbish collection.
Initially, ministers had allowed 30 councils to postpone their elections to facilitate a major local government reorganisation. However, this decision was reversed following a legal challenge by Reform UK.
Other Elections on 7 May
In addition to local council elections, voters will elect representatives to the national parliaments of Scotland and Wales. Mayoral elections will also take place in Croydon, Hackney, Lewisham, Newham, Tower Hamlets, and Watford.
