The Telegraph, 22nd October 2024
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2024/10/22/ive-made-up-my-mind-who-im-backing-for-tory-leader/
Our party stands at a crossroads, but I am confident that, under the right leadership, we can rise to meet this moment
Leadership contests are defining moments for our party, offering us the chance to reflect, renew and move forward with purpose. Both Kemi and Robert have stepped up, not just out of ambition, but from a deep sense of duty to our party and our country. Their commitment to tackle the huge challenges we face is clear and I believe that either of them would serve with distinction.
Yet, as we navigate this critical juncture, it is more important than ever that our next leader embodies the values, vision and authenticity required to steer Britain though the difficult waters ahead. In recent years we have not always got this balance right. We must all shoulder the responsibility for the opportunities that were squandered following the 2019 election. But we should not dwell on the past. Our party has repeatedly shown its ability to unite, rebuild and inspire the nation when we come together around a compelling message. We can do it again now.
Kemi and Robert have shown a deep understanding of the critical issues facing our nation – immigration, economic growth, policing, and national identity. These are not just political talking points; they are the issues that affect the daily lives of people across the country. And it is vital that we address them openly and honestly. Too often, difficult subjects have been avoided or watered down, but our voters expect and deserve frank discussion, grounded in solutions. This is how we will once again become the voice of the hardworking, patriotic majority. We must show that we are not simply content with managing decline or offering half-measures. Our vision must be bold, rooted in the values that have always made our party strong: responsibility, fairness, and opportunity for all.
Of course, we cannot rely on the opposition’s weaknesses alone to propel us forward. While Labour may be stumbling, and Keir Starmer’s leadership may be uninspiring, we cannot afford to become complacent. The political landscape is shifting, and we must adapt to it. We face a steep uphill battle, but we have climbed mountains before, and with the right leadership, we can do it again.
The trust of the British people is something we must earn – through action, not words. One of the central issues that has led to disillusionment among our supporters is the failure to control legal migration and to stop the small boats. This is an issue that cuts to the heart of our nation’s future, and we must offer clear, resolute solutions. Before we can win over new voters, we must rebuild trust with our core supporters by showing them that we are serious about the global migration crisis.
For this reason, I am backing Robert Jenrick to lead our party. Not only has he set out clear policies on issues like defence, housing, economic growth and energy, but his decision to resign from government was a powerful statement of principle, demonstrating the kind of conviction and courage that we need in a leader. Robert has laid out a clear, unambiguous plan to address the issues that matter most to our voters. He understands that leadership requires not just vision but the determination to see it through, even when it is difficult.
We must not be timid nor must we hesitate. We need a leader with the clarity and strength to tackle challenges head-on. Robert Jenrick is that leader. His plan to reform migration policy by withdrawing from the ECHR and placing a cap on visas is not just necessary; it is the foundation upon which we can rebuild trust and win back millions of voters who have lost faith. And having spent decades dealing with these legal frameworks myself, from an immigration Barrister to Attorney General and then Home Secretary, I remain utterly convinced that it is the responsible way forward.
Our party stands at a crossroads, but I am confident that, under the right leadership, we can rise to meet this moment. We have done it before, and we will do it again. With courage, conviction, and a clear sense of purpose, we can lead Britain into a new era of opportunity and prosperity. Robert Jenrick has the vision and the resolve to take us there, and I believe he is the leader who can unite us and deliver the future that Britain deserves.
