Overview

• Badenoch's leadership campaign released a document suggesting that autism and other neurodiversity diagnoses confer economic advantages, which has been widely criticized.
• The pamphlet's conflation of autism with anxiety and other mental health conditions has been described as muddled and lacking evidence by critics, including fellow Tory Robert Buckland.
• Families of autistic individuals have refuted claims of economic benefits, highlighting the significant financial and bureaucratic challenges they face.
• Badenoch's comments are part of broader criticisms she has faced, including her views on maternity pay and minimum wage, which have been perceived as targeting vulnerable groups.
• The controversy raises questions about the Conservative Party's direction and its ability to present a viable opposition under Badenoch's leadership.