Rishi Sunak to address Tory conference amid election challenges

Rishi Sunak, the outgoing leader of the Conservative Party, is set to deliver a keynote speech at the party's conference in Birmingham this October. His planned appearance comes after a summer of criticism regarding his absence from the political scene, particularly following the Tories' significant defeat in the last general election. Many party members questioned whether he would attend the conference, given the party's struggles and his leadership's impact on their current standing in Parliament. The conference will focus on the ongoing leadership race, with four candidates vying for the position. Sunak's leadership has been scrutinized, with some MPs expressing doubts about the relevance of his voice in the current political climate. Critics have pointed out that he has allowed the Labour government to operate without significant opposition, raising concerns about the party's future. Former leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith has publicly criticized Sunak for his lack of engagement, emphasizing the need for active opposition during critical times. He highlighted the Labour government's early challenges, including financial issues and allegations of cronyism, suggesting that the Conservative Party must not retreat in the face of defeat but instead remain vigilant and proactive. As the party navigates this leadership transition, the stakes are high. With other parties like Reform UK and the Liberal Democrats gaining traction, the Conservatives must address their internal challenges and present a united front to avoid losing their position as the main opposition party in the UK.