Leader of the Conservative Party, Kemi Badenoch, has reacted strongly to the resignation of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, describing his administration as ineffective and accusing the Labour Party of steering the United Kingdom in the wrong direction.
Badenoch made her remarks in a statement posted on her official X account shortly after Starmer announced on Monday that he would be stepping down as leader of the Labour Party and Prime Minister.
The Conservative leader criticised several key decisions taken during Starmer’s tenure, arguing that they contributed to the economic and political challenges currently facing the country.
Among the policies she highlighted were increases in national insurance contributions, the controversial Family Farm Tax, welfare reforms, defence spending priorities, energy policies and senior political appointments.
“Hiking national insurance. The Family Farm Tax. Giving up on real welfare reform. Not funding our defence. Not drilling our own oil and gas. Appointing Peter Mandelson, then lying about what had happened,” Badenoch wrote.
While acknowledging widespread criticism of Starmer’s leadership, Badenoch insisted that the problems confronting Britain extend beyond one individual and are rooted in what she described as Labour’s ideological approach to governance.
According to her, the Labour Party’s focus on taxation and welfare spending has come at the expense of economic growth and productivity.
“Britain is not ungovernable. Keir Starmer is a terrible Prime Minister. But the problem isn’t just Starmer,” she stated.
Badenoch further argued that many Labour lawmakers favour expanding government spending without implementing policies capable of stimulating economic growth.
“Labour MPs only want higher taxes to hand out more benefits, as the Welfare Secretary has pointed out. These are Labour’s choices and their values, regardless of who is running the party,” she added.
The Conservative Party leader used the opportunity to promote her party’s vision for the country, insisting that the UK requires a renewed focus on productivity, job creation and economic growth.
“We need to get Britain working again. We need the Conservatives,” Badenoch said.
Her comments are expected to signal the beginning of an intensified political battle as Labour prepares to select a new leader and the Conservatives position themselves ahead of the next general election.
Starmer announced his resignation less than two years after entering Downing Street, bringing an end to a premiership marked by policy reversals, internal party tensions and growing political pressure.
Speaking outside 10 Downing Street on Monday, the outgoing prime minister said he had concluded that fresh leadership was necessary as the country looks ahead to the next phase of government.
He confirmed that the process of electing a new Labour Party leader would commence in July, with a successor expected to be chosen by September.
Until then, Starmer said he would remain in office to ensure a smooth transition.
The prime minister also revealed that he intends to spend more time with his family after leaving office, reflecting on the demands of leadership and expressing gratitude to his wife, Vic, for her support throughout his time in government.
Starmer acknowledged that increasing pressure within the Labour Party had influenced his decision to step aside, although he maintained that every decision taken during his tenure was guided by what he believed to be in the best interests of the country.
Starmer’s departure opens a new chapter in British politics, with Labour now facing the challenge of selecting a leader capable of uniting the party and restoring public confidence.
At the same time, opposition parties are expected to intensify their campaigns, with Badenoch already positioning the Conservatives as the alternative to Labour’s approach.
The coming months are likely to shape the political landscape ahead of the next general election, as both major parties seek to convince voters they offer the strongest path forward for the United Kingdom.
