Blue fury erupted in the UK as key Tory MPs voted against a measure at its second reading on Tuesday night. Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch, a potential leader if the Tories lose the election, also voted against the bill, voicing her “significant concerns.” In anticipation of opposition from his own party, which has a significant libertarian caucus, Chancellor Rishi Sunak allowed a free vote, meaning his parliamentary troops could rebel without punishment based on their conscience.
The opposition Labour Party, currently leading in the polls, criticized Sunak’s move as a sign of weakness, ordering its MPs to vote in favor of the legislation. Despite the historical impact of Sunak’s plan, especially if passed, he may not receive much appreciation from his own party. The vote caused a psychodrama as former PMs criticized the plan, each with their own reasons for opposing Sunak.
Former PM Liz Truss labeled the plans as “un-Conservative” and voted against the bill, warning MPs about potential future restrictions from the “health police.” Previous PM Boris Johnson, although no longer an MP, also criticized the plans, describing them as “nuts.” The vote set the stage for internal party conflicts and further divisions as the UK continued to debate the proposed measure.