Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick delivered a combative speech at the Conservative Party conference, urging members to help “take our country back” amid what he described as Britain’s decline under Labour.
Despite acknowledging the party’s current difficulties—including poor polling and ongoing defections to Reform UK—Jenrick struck an optimistic tone, insisting that “every tide turns” and that ordinary Britons are ready to fight for change.
The speech included several provocative moments. Jenrick held up a barrister’s wig while criticizing what he called “activist judges,” and announced plans to restore the Lord Chancellor’s authority to appoint judges, eliminating quangos from the process. He argued this would reverse “constitutional vandalism” by Tony Blair’s government.
Jenrick also launched a sharp attack on Attorney General Lord Hermer, highlighting his previous legal representation of controversial figures including Shamima Begum, those linked to the 2005 London bombings, and Gerry Adams. He claimed Lord Hermer’s appointment proves “Labour is just not on Britain’s side.” However, Lord Hermer’s supporters note that barristers must accept clients under the “cab rank” principle.
The shadow minister painted a picture of public frustration, referencing conversations with mothers worried about illegal migration, tradespeople suffering from van theft, and people displaying flags who feel their identity is “sneered at.”
Justice Secretary David Lammy responded forcefully, accusing Jenrick of undermining British democracy by threatening judicial independence. He said Jenrick “tramples on the British values he claims to defend” and warned that allowing politicians to decide which judges serve represents “democratic backsliding.” Lammy contrasted the Conservative approach with Labour’s vision of “patriotic renewal.”RetryClaude can make mistakes. Please double-check responses.
