The sacking of Robert Jenrick is viewed as a significant development for the British right and for figures like Kemi Badenoch and Jenrick himself. Upon Kemi Badenoch's leadership of the Conservative Party, the party polled higher than Reform UK. Conservative MPs reportedly express concerns about Reform UK gaining influence.
Allegations of Defection
Kemi Badenoch's allegation that Jenrick planned to defect to Reform UK suggests a potentially significant departure from the Conservative Party. Jenrick, who finished second in the 2024 leadership election, has maintained a prominent profile through social media.
Past Interactions with Reform UK
Jenrick and Reform UK have had public disagreements. Nigel Farage, for instance, criticized Jenrick on social media, calling him "a fraud" in August. Zia Yusuf, Reform's head of policy, has also publicly criticized Jenrick's record.
Jenrick's Political Journey
Jenrick's political journey is noteworthy in the context of a potential defection. Elected in a 2014 by-election, he initially aligned with the Conservative mainstream, voting Remain in the EU referendum. His endorsement of Boris Johnson's 2019 leadership campaign alongside Rishi Sunak and Oliver Dowden was seen as a key moment, indicating a shift in momentum among mainstream Conservative figures.
Jenrick received the position of housing secretary in Johnson's first cabinet, though his political trajectory subsequently diverged from that of close associates. Under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Jenrick served as immigration minister, a non-cabinet role. Friends report that his experience in this role influenced his views, leading him to perceive the immigration system as dysfunctional. Critics within the party suggested this stance was politically motivated, anticipating a future leadership contest. He resigned from Sunak's government due to concerns that policies on illegal immigration were insufficient and adopted more right-leaning positions on other issues.
Conservative Party Reaction
Kemi Badenoch's belief that Jenrick intended to shift further right has created instability within the Conservative Party. Conservative MPs have reacted to Jenrick's sacking, with some noting a quiet atmosphere within party communication channels over the weekend.
One MP, who generally aligns with Jenrick, stated that Jenrick was exploring options regarding Reform UK but preferred to await the May elections and assess a potential Conservative leadership bid. The veracity of Badenoch's evidence and Jenrick's statements will clarify the situation. A senior Conservative MP described the situation as "a massive mess" for the party. The long-term implications of Badenoch's action remain to be seen.