Kemi Badenoch wrapped up Conservative conference with a well-received speech that was bursting with policy ideas. The Tory leader’s hour-long address in Manchester was intended as a rejoinder to critics of her leadership. Having been accused of lacking spirit, imagination and vigour, Badenoch today demonstrated all three. The main headline grabbing announcement was her plan to abolish stamp duty – a surprise ‘rabbit’ that sparked a standing ovation.

Had her speech been a disaster, one can imagine a flurry of letters being triggered by nervy Tory MPs

The £9 billion commitment would be funded from the savings she unveiled earlier this week. It is intended to be the answer to the question which has long bedevilled various Tory leaders: how do they get young people to vote for them? Badenoch

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