Robert Jenrick is set to join Reform UK as the newest addition from the Conservative Party following his dismissal by Kemi Badenoch.
The enraged Tory leader claimed to have found undeniable proof of her Shadow Justice Secretary’s plans to defect. Nigel Farage confirmed discussions with the former Immigration Minister.
If the transition proceeds, Farage will face tough inquiries regarding his past criticisms of Jenrick. Jenrick faced criticism for the surge in asylum hotel numbers during his tenure as Immigration Minister, boasting about the increasing hotel capacity.
Farage previously labeled Jenrick as untrustworthy and a fraud due to his handling of the asylum hotel issue. Jenrick, who initially opposed Brexit, shifted towards more conservative stances under Suella Braverman.
Farage expressed skepticism about Jenrick’s ideological transformation, questioning his motives and predicting potential party division. Reform’s Laila Cunningham criticized Jenrick for the migrant hotel situation during his leadership.
Despite the ongoing discussions, Reform UK’s leader clarified that no formal agreement was imminent with Jenrick. He hinted at a friendly gesture towards Jenrick, raising questions about Jenrick’s recent statements about his political ambitions within the Conservative Party.