Several reports say Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has rejected applications from some former Members of Parliament who want to stand as party candidates at the next general election. The specific group highlighted in the coverage includes ex-MPs who support policies Badenoch has moved away from, including continued backing for “net zero” and maintaining the UK’s relationship with the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). The outlets describe the move as a candidate-selection decision that bars people from becoming Conservative candidates if they do not align with the leader’s current policy direction. One report states that Badenoch’s approach applies even to people who previously served as MPs, suggesting the selection process is being used to enforce conformity with the party’s evolving agenda. The coverage focuses on the fact of the rejections and the policy positions at issue, rather than detailing the full list of affected applicants or any formal appeal process. The decision is presented as part of internal party reshaping ahead of the next election.