Badenoch closes conference with promises to scrap stamp duty and strengthen borders

The Conservatives will scrap stamp duty on sales of primary residences if they win the next election, Kemi Badenoch has said, in a policy-heavy speech designed to improve her standing as Tory leader and her party's economic credibility with voters.

- Kiran Stacey Policy editor

Badenoch told her party's conference she would abolish the tax that new buyers in England and Northern Ireland have to pay on house purchases over £125,000, at an estimated cost of £9bn a year. Stamp duty would still apply to additional properties bought by companies, and for purchases by non-UK residents.

She made the promise at the end of four days in Manchester during which she bolstered her precarious position with two assured speeches and no direct challenge from her clearest rival, Robert Jenrick.

"Home ownership should be a dream that's open to everyone," she told the conference. "Abolishing stamp duty on your home is a key to unlock a fairer and more aspirational society. Scrapping stamp duty will benefit people of all ages, because conservatism must speak to all generations: the young professional buying their first flat, the couple looking for somewhere to bring up their first baby, the growing family hunting for their forever home."

In an attempt to answer questions about her vision for Britain, she said:

"I stand for stronger borders and a stronger economy - so that the young can fulfil their potential, the old can live out their years in dignity, and everyone can achieve their dreams to own a home, run a business, raise a family."