Robert Jenrick criticizes Boris Johnson’s immigration policy
Robert Jenrick has labeled Boris Johnson’s immigration policy as a significant error, claiming it has turned its back on voters by allowing over two million migrants to settle in the UK between January 2021 and June 2024, a phenomenon dubbed the ‘Boriswave’, reports BritPanorama.
Jenrick, who recently defected from the Conservative Party to Reform, characterized this policy as one of the party’s most significant political blunders and a betrayal of the Brexit referendum outcome. His comments represent one of his strongest criticisms aimed at his former party.
In an interview, Jenrick stated, “The worst mistake of all was the immigration system that Boris Johnson and Priti Patel created after the 2019 election.” He emphasized that the Conservative Party was elected on a platform to reduce migration and fulfill the promises of Brexit, yet swiftly implemented a policy contrary to that commitment.
He continued, “It was sticking two fingers up to the people who had just voted for it. And the result? Millions of people came into the country with very little to offer the UK.” Following Brexit, Johnson and Patel introduced a points-based immigration system that aimed to control migration, yet immigration subsequently surged to record levels.
Jenrick asserted that the record immigration influx led to wage undercutting for British workers and restricted access to housing for young people. He remarked, “Parts of our country became almost unrecognizable because such vast numbers of people were coming in in such a short period of time. I think that was one of the worst political decisions since the Second World War.”
The discussion surrounding the ‘Boriswave’ is likely to become a pivotal issue in the political landscape as Reform UK seeks to leverage public discontent over immigration numbers in the upcoming election.
In related events, Kemi Badenoch, the current Tory leader, dismissed Jenrick from the shadow cabinet earlier this week after revealing his plans to join Reform. She criticized him for prioritizing his political aspirations over party loyalty, suggesting the Conservative Party is better off in his absence.
As debates over immigration and its ramifications continue, the trajectory of Reform UK’s influence on the political scene remains to be seen amidst mounting voter concerns.
Migration policy is shaping up to be a defining issue in British politics, reflecting broader anxieties about identity, economic stability, and the nation’s post-Brexit future.
