Bernard Jenkin, English businessman and politician, Shadow Secretary of State for Defence

Sir Bernard Christison Jenkin, born on April 9, 1959, is a distinguished and long-serving figure within British Conservative politics. Known for his principled stances and deep engagement in parliamentary affairs, he currently holds the influential position of Chairman of the Liaison Committee.

A Distinguished Parliamentary Career

Sir Bernard’s journey in Westminster began with his initial election as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Colchester North in the 1992 general election. As constituency boundaries in the UK are periodically reviewed and redrawn to reflect demographic changes, he subsequently represented North Essex. This paved the way for the creation of his current constituency, Harwich and North Essex, which he has proudly served as MP since 2010.

Influential Roles in Parliament and Party

Within the intricate workings of the parliamentary system, Sir Bernard has held several significant positions. In May 2010, he was elected Chairman of the Public Administration Select Committee, a body crucial for scrutinising the efficiency and effectiveness of government departments and public services. Furthermore, his party leadership experience includes a tenure as Deputy Chairman of the Conservative Party, a role where he bore the vital responsibility for the selection and management of parliamentary candidates until November 7, 2006, when this portfolio was passed to John Maples.

A particularly telling moment in his political career occurred during a cabinet reshuffle. He notably declined an offer for another frontbench position, reportedly communicating to then-party leader David Cameron that only a return to the Shadow Cabinet – a more senior, policy-shaping role within the opposition's leadership team – would genuinely interest him. This demonstrated his clear ambitions and an unwavering commitment to impactful political engagement rather than mere presence.

A Consistent Voice on European Policy

Throughout his career, Sir Bernard Jenkin has been a steadfast and vocal critic of the European Union. His deeply held belief that the EU's institutional framework and policies fundamentally undermine the United Kingdom's national sovereignty has been a defining characteristic of his political identity. He gained early prominence as one of the "Maastricht Rebels," a group of Conservative Members of Parliament who, during John Major's premiership in the 1990s, courageously defied their party whip by opposing the ratification of the Maastricht Treaty, a landmark agreement that laid the foundations for the modern European Union. This pivotal stand solidified his reputation as a committed Eurosceptic. Unsurprisingly, he strongly advocated for Brexit during the 2016 EU Referendum, and since 2017, he has been among the most prominent and vocal supporters of the Eurosceptic pressure group, Leave Means Leave, consistently arguing for a decisive and complete departure from the European Union.

Advocacy for Social Progress and Environmental Stewardship

Beyond the constitutional and economic debates, Sir Bernard has also demonstrated a significant commitment to social progress. He has publicly championed marriage equality, a stance that garnered him a nomination for a prestigious Stonewall award in 2013, recognising his positive impact on the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people. Moreover, environmental sustainability is a central concern among his policy priorities. His dedication to eco-friendly lifestyle choices and his broader advocacy in this area earned him the distinguished Green Heart Hero Award from The Climate Coalition, an umbrella organisation representing numerous UK environmental groups, underscoring his practical commitment to tackling climate change.

Recognition for Public Service

In well-deserved recognition of his extensive and dedicated political and public service to the United Kingdom, Sir Bernard Christison Jenkin was awarded a knighthood in 2018, a significant honour acknowledging his profound contributions to the nation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Liaison Committee?

The Liaison Committee is a powerful and influential committee in the UK Parliament, composed of the chairs of all select committees. Its primary role is to question the Prime Minister on public policy and scrutinise the work of government.

Who were the "Maastricht Rebels"?

The "Maastricht Rebels" were a group of Eurosceptic Conservative Members of Parliament who, during the 1990s premiership of John Major, opposed and voted against key aspects of the Maastricht Treaty, which established the European Union and laid the groundwork for further European integration. Their rebellion often challenged the government's majority.

Why did Sir Bernard Jenkin decline a frontbench position?

During a cabinet reshuffle, Sir Bernard Jenkin reportedly declined an offer for a frontbench role because he expressed interest only in a return to the Shadow Cabinet, indicating a clear preference for a more senior, policy-shaping role within the opposition's leadership team.

What is the Stonewall award he was nominated for?

Sir Bernard Jenkin was nominated for a Stonewall award in 2013 for his support of marriage equality. Stonewall is a prominent LGBTQ+ rights charity in the UK, and its awards recognise individuals and organisations for their significant contributions to promoting equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people.

What is Leave Means Leave?

Leave Means Leave is a Eurosceptic pressure group in the United Kingdom that advocated for a swift and comprehensive departure from the European Union following the 2016 referendum. Sir Bernard Jenkin has been a vocal supporter of the group since 2017.

When was Sir Bernard Jenkin knighted?

Sir Bernard Jenkin was awarded a knighthood in 2018 in recognition of his extensive political and public service to the United Kingdom.