Michael Heseltine has drawn parallels between Reform and the fascists of the 1930s while indirectly criticizing his party’s stance on asylum seekers. The veteran Tory figure, once part of Margaret Thatcher’s cabinet, condemned what he called “dishonest” attacks on migrants and decried Kemi Badenoch’s intentions to reverse climate legislation.

Speaking at the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester, the former Deputy PM cautioned about the rise of far-right movements in Europe and the US, singling out Nigel Farage’s party. He expressed concern that demonizing asylum seekers fuels prejudiced attitudes in communities.

Heseltine also rebuked Badenoch’s proposal to scrap the Climate Change Act, labeling it as “unforgivable irresponsibility.” He warned against the resurgence of right-wing extremist ideologies akin to the fascist movements of the past, citing political figures in various countries and highlighting the need to address the global issue of climate change without delay.

In a veiled critique aimed at senior Tories, Heseltine emphasized the positive intentions of the majority of asylum seekers seeking refuge from persecution or conflict. He urged against painting them as criminals, stressing the importance of fostering inclusivity rather than stoking prejudice.

The audience applauded as Heseltine distanced himself from populist extremism embodied by Nigel Farage, asserting that such ideologies have no place in mainstream politics. He underscored the crucial role of Conservatives in combating climate change and warned against undermining past efforts to address the pressing environmental crisis.

Heseltine concluded by stressing the necessity of continuing the fight against climate change, highlighting the urgent need to uphold the commitments made by the Conservative party in tackling this global challenge.