Jenrick Open to Boris Johnson’s Return in Shadow Cabinet Amidst Tory Leadership Battle

In the race for Conservative leadership, Robert Jenrick expressed that he would be "happy" to include Boris Johnson in his prospective shadow cabinet. Jenrick emphasized that having their "top talent in play" is crucial for the Tories to serve as a formidable Opposition and to make a comeback in government.

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Wednesday, August 21, 2024, 6:

Robert Jenrick expressed enthusiasm at the prospect of having Boris Johnson in his shadow cabinet, should he emerge victorious in the Conservative leadership race.

The ex-minister of immigration stated that the Conservative Party requires "the most competent individuals accessible," and he expressed his enthusiasm about the potential return of the previous prime minister if he chooses to come back.

Mr. Johnson was forced to leave 10 Downing Street in July 2022 following the Chris Pincher scandal, which led to a widespread departure of officials from his administration.

He subsequently stepped down as the Member of Parliament for Uxbridge and South Ruislip following a Commons investigation that concluded he had misled parliament regarding the partygate scandal.

In response to a query about including Mr. Johnson in his leading group, Mr. Jenrick conveyed to The Telegraph, "Yes. It's crucial that we have the most capable individuals from the Conservative circle actively involved, helping us form a robust Opposition, challenging Keir Starmer on his shortcomings, and aiming to triumph in the upcoming general election."

"If Boris is interested in joining, that would be wonderful."

Mr. Johnson has refuted any misconduct linked to the gatherings at Downing Street and has claimed that the Commons is engaging in a witch hunt targeting him.

He briefly considered reentering high-profile politics after Liz Truss’s brief tenure fell apart, but he withdrew from the contest upon realizing he couldn't bring the party together.

After his tenure, he has earned millions from speaking engagements and currently pens a column for the Daily Mail.

He did not run in the July general election, but he has left open the possibility of re-entering politics later on.

Mr. Jenrick, who stepped down from his role as immigration minister under Rishi Sunak, is now competing to succeed the former prime minister. His contenders include Kemi Badenoch, James Cleverly, Dame Priti Patel, Mel Stride, and Tom Tugendhat.

Further details: Jenrick criticized for Allahu Akbar remark; Conservative leadership candidate used weight loss medication

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The victor will confront the monumental challenge of consolidating the Conservative Party and attempting to enhance its popularity following its most severe general election loss ever.

A survey conducted from August 2 to August 12 involving 805 members of the Conservative Party indicates that ex-home secretary Mr. Cleverly is the favored choice for the next party leader, garnering support from 26% of the participants.

In the Techne UK survey, he was trailed by Ms. Patel at 20%, Ms. Badenoch at 14%, Mr. Tugendhat with 11%, Mr. Jenrick at 10%, and Mr. Stride at 4%.

Past polls have yielded different outcomes, failing to establish a clear favorite.

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The existing group of six candidates will be reduced following a series of votes by Conservative MPs at the beginning of next month. The race will ultimately be decided by the Conservative party members when only two candidates remain.

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