Kemi Badenoch Claims Welfare Is Preferable to Work Under Labour
Kemi Badenoch, the Tory leader, criticized Labour's policies, saying that under Keir Starmer's leadership, being on benefits is more advantageous than holding a job—except if one works for the government itself. She argued that those employed in the public sector or organizations that tax businesses fare better than business owners.
Critique of Labour's Economic Approach
Following Rachel Reeves's remarks on the economy, Badenoch stated:
"Risk aversion is killing us. The price of avoiding all failure is that we are losing all chance of success."
She added that Labour is fostering a culture where people are encouraged to spend rather than save and emphasized:
"You're better off on welfare than in work... If you do work, you're better off working for the Government or the organisation taxing the business rather than the business itself."
Accusations Against Labour
Badenoch accused Labour of lacking a clear plan to boost employment in Britain and abandoning fiscal responsibility. She clarified this was not about enforcing austerity but about honoring taxpayers' contributions.
In response to the Chancellor's indication of potential tax increases, Badenoch advocated for lowering taxes instead.
Summary: Kemi Badenoch condemned Labour’s policies as disincentivizing work, arguing they favor welfare and tax-funded jobs over business employment, and called for tax cuts to support the economy.