Badenoch Pledges Removal of Inheritance Tax on Family Homes

Kemi Badenoch used her keynote address at the Conservative autumn conference on Thursday to pledge the removal of inheritance tax on family homes. The announcement quickly dominated front pages, with the Daily Mail branding the policy around protecting family property and the Metro noting the leader said it would allow couples to leave £1m tax-free to loved ones.

The policy drew sharp reactions across the press. The Daily Express highlighted Badenoch's claim that “nobody will ever pay death tax on family homes,” describing the speech as rousing. The Financial Times called the move a new wave that invokes core Tory values, while the Times echoed her promise that the party will make you better off. The Independent observed that the pledge signals a direct pitch to middle-class voters.

Market observers focused on the economic context surrounding the political campaigning. The Financial Times reported that the conflict in Iran has blown a £12bn hole in Chancellor John Healey's room for manoeuvre. Analysts warned that the fiscal squeeze could trigger fears of tax rises and spending cuts as the government navigates its budget constraints.

Foreign policy also featured heavily in Thursday's editions. The Telegraph reported that Prime Minister Andy Burnham plans to raise tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles to strengthen trade ties with the European Union. Separately, the Times reported that Israel is set to close its UK consulate as diplomatic relations hit a new low, despite British efforts to prevent the shutdown.

Reform UK faced scrutiny over its funding practices. The Daily Mirror reported that an internal party investigation concluded the group did not breach electoral law when senior officials discussed securing foreign donations. The Metropolitan Police, however, continues a separate criminal investigation into the party over the same allegations.

Domestic policy reforms drew attention in the health and education sectors. The i reported that an upcoming independent review will recommend that young people receive ADHD support without a formal diagnosis. Meanwhile, the Guardian warned that “Labour's flagship plans to reform special education in England are at risk of unravelling,” citing data showing parents rushing to secure help before systemic changes take effect.