Kemi Badenoch Criticizes Civil Servants at Conservative Party Conference

Kemi Badenoch claims up to 10% of civil servants should be in prison for leaking secrets at the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham. Her statements have drawn criticism from union leaders and added tension to the leadership race among the four remaining contenders. Robert Jenrick and James Cleverly advocate for major reforms while public interest in the leadership contest remains low.

Kemi Badenoch, during a fringe event at the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham, claimed that up to 10% of civil servants are so bad they should be in prison for leaking official secrets and agitating against ministers.

Badenoch, a former business secretary and current leadership contender, emphasized that while most civil servants do a good job, a small obstructive minority exist.

Her comments have sparked backlash, with the FDA union's general secretary Dave Penman urging her to withdraw the accusations unless she provides evidence.

Meanwhile, as the conference continues, four leadership contenders, including Robert Jenrick and James Cleverly, prepare for crucial speeches.

Jenrick calls for a new Conservative party focusing on immigration control and public sector reform, while Cleverly aims to reduce state interference.

Polls indicate that the public remains largely indifferent to the leadership race.