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

In the race for Conservative leadership, Robert Jenrick expressed his approval of including Boris Johnson in his potential shadow cabinet. Jenrick emphasized that having the party's "top talent in play" is essential for serving as a strong Opposition and for a future comeback to governance.

Political journalist @fayebrownSky

Wednesday, August 21, 2024, 6:

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

The ex-minister of immigration expressed that the Conservative Party should recruit "the most capable individuals available" and mentioned he would be "happy" to see the ex-prime minister rejoin the party if he decides to come back.

Mr. Johnson was removed from his position at 10 Downing Street in July 2022 following the Chris Pincher scandal that 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 the conclusion of a parliamentary investigation that found he had misled parliament regarding the partygate scandal.

When questioned if he would include Mr. Johnson in his leading group, Mr. Jenrick responded to The Telegraph, stating, "Yes. I believe we need the most capable individuals from within the Conservative ranks to join us on the field, to help us form a robust Opposition, to scrutinize Keir Starmer for his shortcomings that are already evident, and to ultimately triumph in the forthcoming general election."

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

Mr. Johnson has refuted any misconduct linked to the gatherings at Downing Street and has charged the Commons with conducting a witch hunt against him.

He momentarily considered reentering high-profile politics following the rapid downfall of Liz Truss's government, but he withdrew from contention after determining he lacked the necessary support to consolidate the party.

After his tenure, he has earned millions through public speaking and now pens a column for the Daily Mail.

He chose not to run in the general election in July, yet he hasn't dismissed the possibility of a political comeback later on.

Mr. Jenrick, who stepped down from his position as Rishi Sunak's immigration minister last year, is competing to fill the role previously held by the former prime minister, alongside contenders Kemi Badenoch, James Cleverly, Dame Priti Patel, Mel Stride, and Tom Tugendhat.

Further details: Jenrick's 'Allahu Akbar' remark deemed imprudent; Conservative leadership hopeful admits to using diet medication

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The victor will confront the significant challenge of consolidating the Conservative Party and endeavoring to enhance its position in voter surveys following its most severe general election loss ever.

A survey conducted with 805 members of the Conservative Party from August 2 to August 12 indicates that the former Home Secretary, Mr. Cleverly, is the favored choice for the next party leader, securing 26% of the support.

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

Previous studies, on the other hand, have yielded different outcomes, with no clear favorite emerging as a consensus.

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The existing group of six candidates will be reduced through voting by Conservative MPs at the beginning of next month, ultimately leading to a final vote by the Conservative party members when only two candidates remain.

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