Tory leadership hopefuls go head-to-head in crucial showdown at party conference – Latest updates from UK politics live coverage

The Conservative leadership candidates are set to outline their visions for the party today, with four candidates delivering 20-minute speeches at the conference. Robert Jenrick is advocating for a new Conservative party, Kemi Badenoch is focusing on wealth creation, James Cleverly is emphasizing optimism, and Tom Tugendhat is calling for a “New Conservative Revolution”. The candidates face the challenge of presenting new ideas while appealing to both party members and MPs. The outcome of the leadership contest is significant as historically Conservative leaders have become prime ministers. The conference has been filled with tension, with candidates subtly criticizing each other. Today’s speeches will be a key moment in the contest, as two-thirds of voters have shown little interest, although the outcome is consequential. The candidates are navigating through various challenges in their speeches as they seek to garner support from different factions within the party. Voter support and party unity are key factors that the candidates are trying to address. Members are expected to have the final say in choosing the next leader, with MPs also playing a significant role in the process.

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