Kemi Badenoch has warned Conservative MPs that a small number of party staffers are briefing against the party while claiming to be Conservative sources. In a letter to MPs, the Conservative leader said such behaviour was unacceptable and asked MPs to ensure their staff were acting in line with party strategy and values.
The warning comes after three defections to Reform UK in a week, including former shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick and sitting MPs Nadhim Zahawi and Andrew Rosindell. Badenoch described the defections as a 'minor setback, not a defining moment', insisting they did not signal a shift towards more centrist policies.
Badenoch was scathing about Jenrick's conduct, noting he had resolved to leave some time ago while continuing to attend meetings and present himself as part of the collective effort. She said trust and teamwork were not optional in a serious political party aiming for government.
Regarding Rosindell's stated reason for leaving—opposition to the Chagos Islands deal—Badenoch said the claim did not stand up to scrutiny, adding 'We all know he had his difficulties.' She predicted that Reform's acquisition of such MPs would bring internal contradictions and ideological incoherence.
Badenoch also warned that plotting would not be tolerated, drawing a clear line between disagreement and trying to damage the party from within. She said those who could not be part of a changing Conservative party were free to make other choices, but those seeking to undermine or destroy the party would be dealt with firmly.
