Jenrick Open to Johnson's Cabinet Return, Criticizes Multiculturalism

In a recent interview with The Telegraph's Politics Newsletter, Robert Jenrick has expressed his openness to including Boris Johnson in his Cabinet if he were to become the Conservative Party leader. This statement comes as the Tory party faces significant challenges and seeks to redefine its direction.

Jenrick stated, "If Boris wanted to return to Parliament, I would be pleased to welcome him." He emphasized the need for the Conservative Party to utilize all available talent, viewing Johnson's potential return as an asset in holding the opposition accountable and winning the next general election.

It's worth noting that Boris Johnson left his position as Prime Minister in September 2022 and resigned as an MP in June 2023, citing concerns over a Commons inquiry into the "partygate" scandal. Since then, Johnson has been engaged in lucrative speaking engagements and is set to release his memoir, "Unleashed," in September 2024.

Jenrick, who resigned as Rishi Sunak's immigration minister at the end of 2023, also shared his views on multiculturalism in the UK. He expressed concern that the current approach is not working effectively, stating, "Integration is not working as it should be." Jenrick pointed to issues such as segregated communities and inter-communal violence as indicators of this problem.

"I don't think it's working. Of course, there are many successful stories from our diaspora communities. We've seen that in the last Cabinet, when I sat around the Cabinet table, and I've known it my whole life."

The former minister suggested that reducing the pace of change and slowing immigration could be part of the solution. He also called for rigorous law enforcement against extremism from all quarters.

Addressing the rise of Reform UK, Jenrick viewed it as a symptom of the Conservative Party's failure to deliver on key issues, particularly immigration. He expressed his desire to make the Conservative Party the "natural home for all small-c conservatives" and adopt clear positions on issues that matter to Reform voters.

Jenrick acknowledged the precarious position of the Conservative Party, describing its brand as "tainted" and its MPs as "divided ideologically." He attributed these challenges to a failure to deliver for the British public over an extended period.

In conclusion, Jenrick outlined his motivation for standing as party leader, stating, "I have come to the conclusion that the British political system is just not working for the British people, and I want to change that." He emphasized his commitment to bringing forward serious solutions to the country's challenges, distinguishing his approach from that of Keir Starmer and the current leadership.

As the UK approaches its next general election, which must be held no later than January 2025, the Conservative Party faces the task of reinventing itself and addressing the concerns of voters who have shifted their support to other parties.