Robert Jenrick sacked from shadow cabinet by Kemi Badenoch over secret plot to leave Tories: Latest reaction and updates

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has sacked Robert Jenrick from her shadow cabinet following an apparent plot to defect from the party.

Explaining her decision to discipline the shadow justice secretary, Ms Badenoch said she was presented with clear, irrefutable evidence that Mr Jenrick was plotting in secret to defect in a way designed to be as damaging as possible.

Follow the latest updates and reaction below

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Kemi Badenoch sacks Robert Jenrick over 'secret plot' to leave Tories

FILE PHOTO: Robert Jenrick Sacked by Conservative Party: LONDON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 02: Kemi Badenoch is congratulated by Robert Jenrick after winning the Conservative Party leadership contest on November 2, 2024 in London, England. The Tory leadership contest was paired down from an original pool of six contenders, to a face-off between Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick, following Former prime minister Rishi Sunak's resignation as party leader. Sunak announced he would step down on July 5, in the wake of the Conservative Party's crushing defeat in the UK general election. (Photo by Dan Kitwood/Getty Images)

Hello and welcome to our live coverage following a huge story in Westminster as Kemi Badenoch sacks Robert Jenrick from her shadow cabinet.

Announcing her decision on social media, Ms Badenoch said she had been presented with 'clear, irrefutable evidence' that Mr Jenrick was 'plotting in secret to defect in a way designed to be as damaging as possible' to the Conservative Party.

Mr Jenrick has yet to respond but Reform leader Nigel Farage said he had held conversations with the shadow justice secretary and may call him this afternoon.

Stick with us as we bring you the latest updates and reaction on this story.