Badenoch returns to Conservative conference much stronger than a year ago

Approval ratings for Tory leader and her party have crept up as she has asserted her style and authority but big challenges lie ahead

A year ago, Tory MPs were braced for the prospect of yet another leadership battle to topple Kemi Badenoch as the party sunk to historic lows of 14-16% in the polls.

At the time, the word “November” was uttered in hushed tones – this being the decisive month when rebels would be able to mount a challenge, Badenoch having served 12 months in office.