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Badenoch Faces Pressure to Dismiss Jenrick Following Coalition Remarks
Good morning. Today, Keir Starmer will engage with Kemi Badenoch during Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs). With her recent outspoken stance on trans rights gaining traction, particularly noted in rightwing media, it’s probable she will revisit these topics in the upcoming session. The ongoing debate in UK politics, exemplified by the recent interview with Green co-leader Adrian Ramsay regarding gender identity, continues to stir controversy, indicating that discussions around women’s identities are still at the forefront. Another pressing query arises: Can one truly claim to be a Conservative in the presence of conversative figures like Nigel Farage?
This topic has resurfaced following revelations from a report by Sam Coates of Sky News. A recording of Robert Jenrick, the shadow justice secretary and former contender for the Tory leadership, has surfaced where he argues that if the Conservative Party fails to address the Reform UK challenge by the next election, an electoral coalition will be necessary.
During a speech at a Conservative association dinner at University College London in late March, Jenrick expressed concern regarding Reform UK’s increasing popularity in polls:
“[Reform UK] continues to perform well in surveys. My concern is that they could establish a permanent or prolonged presence in British politics. If that happens, it complicates life for us, as the right is not unified.”
“As we approach the general election, the nightmare scenario is that Keir Starmer progresses unhindered due to our disunity. I, for one, am not going to stand back and watch that happen,” he stated.
“I want to see the right united. Thus, I am committed to forming this coalition and ensuring a unified nation.”
Jenrick’s comments stand out among the shadow cabinet, marking him as an official who articulates the need for collaboration between the Tories and Reform UK more explicitly than most. While he indicated a desire to prevent Reform UK from becoming a mainstay of British politics, many in Westminster suspect the party’s presence will persist ahead of the approaching elections. Therefore, his acknowledgment of potential coalition formations is rooted in expected political dynamics rather than mere speculation.
Jenrick holds a significant position within the party; a recent survey from ConservativeHome indicates he is viewed favorably by party members, leading many to believe he is gearing up for another leadership bid.
Badenoch has explicitly ruled out forming any electoral agreements with Reform UK. However, within the party, there is a contingent that perceives her stance as impractical, aligning instead with Jenrick’s viewpoint or that of Greg Smith, the shadow business minister, who mused about potential cooperation in future elections.
Within Coates’ report, a source close to Jenrick reassured that “Rob’s remarks pertain to voters, not parties. He’s focused on making the Conservatives the go-to option for the right-wing electorate.” Nonetheless, this assertion seems to deny the implications of Jenrick’s clearly articulated stance.
Responses from Labour and the Liberal Democrats indicate a rising tide of pressure on Badenoch to address Jenrick’s candid comments. **Ellie Reeves**, chair of the Labour Party, remarked:
Badenoch must clarify whether she supports her shadow justice secretary’s covert negotiations with Reform or if she is prepared to distance herself from that position. If she disagrees with Jenrick, her leadership’s credibility is at stake as long as he remains in her cabinet.
Do we know she has hinted at local-level arrangements with Reform, which Labour firmly opposes? Jenrick’s recent reveal exposes a troubling reality: a mix between the Conservatives, who have historically undermined the NHS, and Reform, which advocates for patients to pay for essential treatments, poses a chaotic future for Britain.
Similarly, **Daisy Cooper**, deputy leader of the Lib Dems, echoed the call for accountability:
It’s clear that senior Tories are concocting dubious electoral agreements with figures like Nigel Farage. If Badenoch wishes to be taken seriously in dismissing such pacts, she must act immediately to remove Robert Jenrick from her cabinet. Anything less would suggest she either lacks the strength to act or aligns with his views.
Today’s schedule includes:
9:15 am: Evidence session with Heidi Alexander, transport secretary, before the Commons transport committee.
9:45 am: John Swinney, Scotland’s first minister, leads a meeting in Glasgow on democratic values.
Noon: Keir Starmer faces Kemi Badenoch during PMQs.
In addition, Rachel Reeves, chancellor, will be attending the IMF spring meetings in Washington, while David Lammy, foreign secretary, will host discussions regarding Ukraine in London. Coverage of these events will be provided by Martin Belam on our live blog.
Source
www.theguardian.com