Title: Kemi Badenoch Defends Tory Donor, Rishi Sunak Seeks to Assert Authority Amid Leadership Threats
In a series of media appearances, Kemi Badenoch, the business secretary, expressed surprise at the suggestion that the Conservative Party should return donations from Frank Hester, a Tory donor who made offensive comments about Diane Abbott. Badenoch defended Rishi Sunak’s handling of the situation, stating that No 10 was taking its time to establish the facts before denouncing the remarks as racist.
Badenoch emphasized the importance of accepting Hester’s apology and moving on, rather than dwelling on the incident that occurred five years ago. She also clarified that the offensive comment made by Hester was not directed at Abbott personally, but was part of a broader reference that was deemed unacceptable.
Meanwhile, Rishi Sunak is facing challenges to his leadership, with reports of new threats emerging. In response, a senior ally of the prime minister suggested the possibility of calling a general election to avert a leadership contest. Sunak is focusing on economic recovery, highlighting positive indicators and forecasting a bounce back for Britain in 2024.
To convey a message of unity within the party, No 10 deployed Kemi Badenoch to urge Tory plotters to support the prime minister. Badenoch emphasized the need to focus on local community initiatives rather than Westminster politics, dismissing the ongoing speculation as “Westminster bubble gossip.”
As the day unfolds, Rishi Sunak is set to deliver a speech on the economy in Warwickshire, followed by a lobby briefing at Downing Street. MPs will also debate Lords amendments to the safety of Rwanda bill, while Sadiq Khan launches his re-election campaign as London’s mayor.
Overall, the political landscape remains turbulent, with leadership tensions and economic recovery efforts taking center stage in the Conservative Party.