Tories could go into coalition with Reform on local councils, says Badenoch
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Kemi Badenoch admits Tories could go into coalition with Reform in UK councils
- Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch stated that local Conservatives could form coalitions with Reform UK after the May council elections.
- This contrasts with Badenoch's refusal of a national coalition with Reform UK, whose leader, Nigel Farage, aims to "destroy" the Conservative Party.
- Badenoch emphasised that local leaders should prioritise the needs of their constituents, citing previous Conservative coalitions with Labour, Liberal Democrats, and Independents.
- The Liberal Democrats criticised this potential local alliance, claiming the Conservatives and Reform UK have "merged" under Badenoch's leadership. Labour warned that voting for either party would lead to more "Tory chaos."
- Badenoch acknowledged the upcoming local elections would be challenging for the Conservatives, following their general election defeat, but urged voters to recognise the efforts of local Conservative candidates.