The previous security minister, Tom Tugendhat, has expressed disapproval of his Conservative leadership opponent’s assertion that UK special forces are “killing rather than capturing” terrorism suspects, labelling it a “fundamental misunderstanding” of the law of war.
Robert Jenrick, the former immigration minister, has justified his assertion made on Tuesday, indicating that it aligns with the statements of former defence secretary Ben Wallace, stemming from concerns that European legislation could potentially release any apprehended offenders.
In a campaign video shared on X on Monday, Jenrick stated: “Our special forces are eliminating rather than apprehending terrorists, as our legal advisors inform us that if they are detained, the European court will release them.”
Tugendhat expressed his disagreement: “I believe his assertion is incorrect, and it reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of military operations and the law of armed conflict.”
“I have significant apprehension that such statements should not be interpreted as promoting any course of action other than compliance with directives from British forces when requested.”
Jenrick affirmed his position on the BBC Radio 4’s Today program regarding the comments made. Ben Wallace highlighted in a Telegraph interview that there are scenarios in which the European Convention on Human Rights is influencing decision-makers to resort to lethal measures.
Decision makers are being prompted to engage in choices that may fall outside their usual parameters.’ For instance, executing a drone strike to implement lethal measures as opposed to a precision operation involving ground special forces.
“I am concerned that our human rights framework may interfere with the capacity of our military to make optimal decisions regarding their safety.” The interview data support the assertion I made, which was entirely true.
Jenrick faced criticism from another leadership contender, shadow home secretary James Cleverly: “The British military consistently adheres to international humanitarian law—the law of armed conflict.” We possess the most proficient military globally. Our military does not engage in acts of murder.
Jenrick faces scrutiny from various legal and military experts, alongside feedback from Labour sources. Dominic Grieve, the former attorney general for England and Wales, stated on X that the assertions were “one of the most astonishing videos I have ever seen posted by a Conservative MP, let alone a candidate for the leadership.”
He stated: “The majority of it lacks substance, presenting a sequence of assurances regarding change that exiting the ECHR will not advance.”
A previous high-ranking military official stated: “This assertion lacks merit and arises during a period when the military is under examination regarding allegations of fatalities abroad and in Northern Ireland.” It is essential for him to rectify the record.
A Labour source has requested an apology from Jenrick. “Robert Jenrick’s absurd effort to politicise our special forces illustrates the extent of the Tories’ decline.” He ought to issue an apology. The dedication of our service members warrants a higher standard than what is currently provided.
Jenrick, previously aligned with Rishi Sunak, currently leads among four candidates competing for the Conservative leadership.
All four individuals will present at the party conference in Birmingham on Wednesday morning, subsequent to which MPs will select the final two candidates on 10 October.