Robert Jenrick, Reform UK's economics spokesperson, launched an extended attack on Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch on Thursday, using derisive language to associate her with metropolitan elites and wealthy London constituencies.
Jenrick repeatedly referred to Badenoch as "Kensington Kemi" and claimed the Conservative Party represented people preoccupied with "the decline of Mayfair clubs" and complaints about sourcing specialty ingredients in shops. He said a coalition deal between Reform UK and the Conservatives would be like being "handcuffed to a zombie".
The attack reflects deteriorating relations between the two parties as they consider potential cooperation in Parliament. Badenoch's Conservatives hold the largest opposition bloc after Labour's 2024 election victory, while Reform UK has consolidated significant support among voters dissatisfied with both major parties.
Jenrick's barbs targeted what he characterised as Badenoch's detachment from working-class concerns. The nickname "Kensington Kemi" references the wealthy London constituency, suggesting her base of support lies among affluent southern voters rather than the "left behind" communities that Reform UK claims to represent.
The Guardian reported the remarks as relations between the two parties continue to strain over potential parliamentary arrangements.