Robert Jenrick wants political judges and only white faces

In a clip from today's podcast, Ava and Oli break down the political storm surrounding Robert Jenrick’s remarks about “not seeing another white face” in Birmingham; comments that recently resurfaced during Conservative Party conference.

Oli, who became embroiled in the discourse on BBC Newsnight yesterday, recounts his on-air clash with a Conservative grandee after pointing out the hypocrisy behind Jenrick’s comments. He makes the point that there isn’t much diversity in the private members’ clubs frequented by Conservative MPs like Jenrick where the corridors of power are still overwhelmingly white and male.

The conversation moves on to unpack Jenrick’s comments about politicising the appointment of judges. Ava and Oli explore how this rhetoric borrows from the American right, comparing Jenrick’s tone to the populist playbook of figures like JD Vance, and why this transatlantic influence could pose a deeper threat to British democracy.

***

[AD] Save more, earn more—up to 4% AER (variable). Interest rates are tiered, with the top rate for balances over £1M. Each tiered rate applies to the

portion within that range. New Tide members get these rates free for 6

months; after that, your Tide plan’s rates apply. Visit tide.co/joe for more.

Rate correct as of 7th August 2025.

***

Like PoliticsJOE? We need your support: