Badenoch and Jenrick Present Leadership Campaigns

The Conservative leadership race between Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick is intensifying, with recent polls showing Badenoch leading by 24 points among party members. Despite this, Jenrick insists the competition is 'neck and neck' and emphasizes the need for immediate policy action rather than vague promises. He proposes increasing defense spending to 3% of GDP, citing threats from China. Meanwhile, plans for head-to-head televised debates have faltered due to disagreements between the candidates' camps, with only separate appearances on GB News being realized. Their recent hustings event in Petersfield drew over 300 party members, showcasing both candidates’ capabilities, yet leaving some attendees undecided. The leadership election results will be announced on November 2.