5 Key takeaways from my party conference speech
In case you weren’t there, I want to share five key takeaways from my speech, where I set out my vision for a rejuvenated Conservative Party and a stronger Britain.
It’s time for the party to rebuild, restore the public's trust, and prepare ourselves to return to power with a renewed sense of purpose.
1. I will restore party credibility and bring strong leadership
I won’t shy away from the truth. I apologised to the public for our parliamentary party’s recent behaviour and missteps, and I firmly commit to getting the Conservative Party back on track. This means reforming our party and ensuring no more candidate selection stitch-ups - party members must get a vote to select our excellent candidates. We need to focus on strong leadership and accountability, holding ourselves to the highest standards. Only then will we regain the country's trust.
2. We need to be more normal, more optimistic, and sell conservative values with a smile
Our core Conservative values matter, and we have to promote them to the public – lower taxes, higher defence spending, less red tape, supporting small businesses, building more homes, and promoting free markets. If you’re ready to remake the argument for capitalism and conservatism to a new generation - I’m your guy.
3. Tackling illegal immigration and safeguarding national security
My firm approach to tackling illegal migration, reducing net migration, and safeguarding national security, answers the concerns we all share about keeping Britain strong, secure and prosperous. My proven track record as Home Secretary, reducing net migration by 300,000, backing our police and focusing on law and order, as well as my pledge to increase defence spending to 3% of GDP, show I am serious about delivering the kind of leadership that makes a real difference.
4. Winning elections and rebuilding the party
Uniting our party and leading us to victory in the next election is crucial, not just for the party but for the country. I have the experience and ability to take on Labour, Reform, and the Lib Dems. I am the candidate whom Starmer, Farage and Davey fear most. I am the candidate who can rebuild our party, working with members, to bring us back into government.
5. Tomorrow can be better
Our best days are still ahead. Taking inspiration from the legacies of Thatcher and Reagan, I know we can bring a renewed sense of optimism, and use that optimism to power our movement and win back the hearts and minds of the British public.
I am ready to unite our party behind shared conservative values – lower taxes, a smaller state, and higher military spending. It is time to rebuild the party, restore trust, and return to power with a renewed sense of purpose.
I am determined to make that a reality.
If you share that vision, you can pledge your support for my campaign here.
And if you want to watch the speech in full, click here.