Jenrick Warns of National Identity Crisis Amid ‘Woke Culture’ and Immigration in Conservative Leadership Bid

Conservative leadership race: Robert Jenrick argues that high levels of immigration and 'woke culture' threaten England's national identity

The leading contender for the Conservative Party leadership stated that schools are failing to teach children to appreciate English history and culture.

Political journalist @alixculbertson

Friday, September 20, 2024, 2:

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Conservative Party leadership contender Robert Jenrick has argued that extensive immigration and "woke culture" are threatening the national identity of England.

Mr. Jenrick, still considered the leading candidate to succeed Rishi Sunak, criticized the "urban elite" for their dismissive view of England's national identity.

The ex-immigration chief expressed concerns that the national unity is weakening because of these sentiments and the surge in migrant numbers.

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"In his Daily Mail article, he expressed that the general population has repeatedly rejected these measures, suggesting that officials in Westminster fail to grasp the extent of the population's frustration."

Mr. Jenrick proposed that dampening England's national identity contributed to the riots this summer after the stabbings in Southport.

He attributed the riots to years of "inter-communal violence, radicalization, and a decreasing sense of trust within our communities."

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In response to a query from Sky News about defining English identity, Mr. Jenrick expressed his reluctance to "condense the identity and history of England into a quick, simplistic statement."

He was presented with seven chances to define English identity, and he expressed that it encompasses the rich history and culture of England, which deserves celebration. However, he pointed out that this is not currently being adequately imparted to the younger generation.

When questioned about the nature of English identity, he responded, "I believe it's something that some people throughout our nation are aware of."

Mr. Jenrick expressed in an article for the Daily Mail that addressing complex identity issues is essential for reconciling our divided country.

Mr. Jenrick expressed concerns that the UK might succumb to the divisive tactics of the far-right if issues surrounding national identity and immigration are not addressed effectively.

He stated that the English "metropolitan elite" hold active disdain for the nation's history and culture.

He mentioned that individuals of "high status" in Scotland and Wales take pride in identifying as Scottish and Welsh, alongside being British, whereas their counterparts in England do not exhibit the same pride in their English identity.

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At 42, he was once viewed as a moderate and served as a Member of Parliament during David Cameron's tenure, whom he strongly backed.

Initially a strong supporter of Sunak at the beginning of his leadership, Mr. Jenrick shifted to a more conservative stance after he assumed the role of immigration minister. He confessed to former Tory MP Nickie Aiken that once he delved deeper into the details of his role, he discovered the extent of the flaws in the system and recognized the necessity for comprehensive reform.

In the previous year, he stepped down from his position in Mr. Sunak's administration, citing that the legislation enabling the Rwanda policy was insufficiently comprehensive to guarantee its implementation.

The action was perceived as setting the stage for his candidacy for the leadership of the Conservative Party, a position he is currently pursuing.

He has suggested capping annual net immigration at under 100,000 and advocated for the UK's withdrawal from the European Convention on Human Rights in order to facilitate the deportation of asylum seekers to Rwanda.

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Speaking to Sky News, Mr. Jenrick stated that immigration has historically enriched England, yet he pointed out that in the quarter-century following Tony Blair's election as prime minister, net migration has surged to 5.9 million.

"He emphasized that the excessively high levels have hindered our ability to integrate individuals effectively, preventing the development of the national unity and identity he desires."

He stated that limiting immigration would facilitate the integration of newcomers and address challenges related to housing, public service accessibility, and the suppression of local salaries by overseas workers.

The Conservative acknowledged that both major political parties, the Conservatives and Labour, have failed to effectively manage mass migration.

The additional contenders for the Conservative leadership include Kemi Badenoch, James Cleverly, and Tom Tugendhat.

Preparations are underway for the debates scheduled during the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham, starting on September 29.

Members of Parliament will whittle down the candidates to a final pair, and the ultimate winner will be declared in November following a vote by party members.

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