Top story: Jenrick sacked after leaving ‘Reform defection speech lying around’
Kemi Badenoch made a dramatic move to tighten her control of the Tories today by sacking former rival Robert Jenrick for plotting to defect.
In a crucial moment at Westminster that could reshape politics, Mrs Badenoch announced that she had seen ‘irrefutable evidence’ that the shadow justice secretary was intending to betray her.
He is alleged to have left the text a near-completed resignation speech and a ‘media plan’ lying around where it could be discovered – although when challenged by the Tory chief whip Rebecca Harris this morning he apparently protested his innocence.
Kemi Badenoch sacks Robert Jenrick over ‘secret plot’ to leave Tories
Hello and welcome to our live coverage following a huge story in Westminster as Kemi Badenoch sacks Robert Jenrick from her shadow cabinet.
Announcing her decision on social media, Ms Badenoch said she had been presented with ‘clear, irrefutable evidence’ that Mr Jenrick was ‘plotting in secret to defect in a way designed to be as damaging as possible’ to the Conservative Party.
Mr Jenrick has yet to respond but Reform leader Nigel Farage said he had held conversations with the shadow justice secretary and may call him this afternoon.
Stick with us as we bring you the latest updates and reaction on this story.
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