Senior members of the Conservative Party have voiced concerns over the language used by some of their colleagues regarding immigration, which they believe has contributed to the recent unrest. These criticisms reflect a growing unease within the party’s liberal faction that a shift towards right-wing populism could further alienate voters.
Rishi Sunak, the current Conservative leader, has not yet addressed the recent violence or responded to comments made by Elon Musk about “two-tier” policing and the potential for civil conflict in the UK. During the unrest, some protesters were seen holding signs with the slogan “Stop the boats,” a phrase used by Sunak during the election campaign to demonstrate his tough stance on illegal Channel crossings.
Robert Jenrick, a leading candidate in the Tory leadership race, faced significant backlash for suggesting that the police should “immediately arrest” anyone chanting “Allahu Akbar,” a common Arabic phrase meaning “God is great.” His remarks were criticised by fellow contender Mel Stride, who cautioned that criminalising such expressions was both “unwise and insensitive.”
Lord Timothy Kirkhope, a former immigration minister and Tory peer, expressed deep concern over the party’s current direction. He warned that the party’s shift towards populism, particularly its alignment with Reform UK, could undermine social cohesion and lead to electoral defeat. Kirkhope stressed the importance of using careful language, especially on sensitive issues like immigration and asylum.
Alistair Burt, a former Tory foreign minister, echoed these concerns, warning against simplifying complex policies into catchy slogans. He pointed out that such tactics could be dangerous and counterproductive, as seen in the previous administration’s targeting of “lefty lawyers.”
Priti Patel, a former home secretary, also faced criticism for her past remarks about “lefty lawyers” and her recent comments on perceived “two-tier policing,” a notion that law enforcement officials have dismissed as a myth.
As the leadership race continues, figures like Stephen Hammond, a former minister, are urging candidates to focus on responsible language and leadership. He warned that mimicking Reform UK’s approach could lead the Conservatives into a prolonged period of opposition.
Despite these internal criticisms, a Tory source defended the party’s stance on immigration, stating, “We certainly won’t be making any apologies for trying to deter people from entering the country illegally.”
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