The Story Jenrick defects: is Reform tearing the Tories apart?
Jan 16, 2026
Aubrey Allegretti, Chief Political Correspondent for The Times, delves into the political upheaval following Robert Jenrick's defection to Reform UK after his sacking. He discusses the implications for the Conservative Party and whether Jenrick can align with Nigel Farage. Aubrey highlights Jenrick's ambitions and past controversies while examining the trend of Conservative defections. He also assesses how Jenrick’s move complicates any potential merger between the parties and questions his political future in the turbulent landscape.
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Awkward Stage Debut
- Robert Jenrick appeared at a Reform event after a visibly awkward delay and opened with a forceful speech attacking the Conservatives.
- Nigel Farage introduced him and there was clear unease as organisers took time to find Jenrick before he spoke.
Months Of Back-Channel Talks
- Jenrick had been in secret talks with Nigel Farage for months and reached out in September, showing a long-build defection plan.
- He hoped to leverage those talks into a senior role but lost bargaining power after Kemi Badenoch sacked him.
A Political Shapeshifter
- Jenrick's career has shifted across the political spectrum, rising fast under Boris Johnson and later embracing harder-line positions.
- Incidents like ordering the children's mural removed helped recast him as tougher on migration and less liberal over time.