Kemi Badenoch has strongly criticised what she described as a growing culture of tolerance toward radical Islamism in the UK, speaking after the recent attack on a Manchester synagogue. Addressing delegates at the Tory conference, the Business Secretary condemned the rise of extremist rhetoric disguised as political expression, particularly during recent pro-Palestine demonstrations.
She described many of the protests as “carnivals of hatred” against Israel, accusing participants of using violent slogans such as “globalise the Intifada” to target Jewish communities. Badenoch said such acts go beyond free speech and amount to open intimidation on British streets.
Her comments come as ministers move to tighten protest laws following a weekend of mass demonstrations that led to nearly 500 arrests. New regulations proposed by Shabana Mahmood would expand police powers to better manage frequent protests, especially those that repeatedly occur on weekends.
Badenoch emphasised that Britain must not allow its values to be undermined by extremist ideologies. “You can express your beliefs in this country,” she said, “but you cannot turn our streets into theatres of intimidation.” Reaffirming her support for the Jewish community, she added, “You are part of the fabric of Britain, and that will never change.”
Taking aim at political opponents, Badenoch accused both Labour and Reform parties of dividing the nation through identity politics. “I am more than black, more than female, and more than Conservative,” she said. “I am British.”
In an interview, Badenoch revealed that her office is working on new legal measures to close existing gaps in protest regulation, ensuring police have the authority to act swiftly and decisively when public safety and social harmony are threatened.
