Tom Tugendhat Criticizes Rival Over Claim About UK Special Forces
Tugendhat Responds to Jenrick’s Claims
Tom Tugendhat, a Conservative leadership candidate and former security minister, has criticized a bold statement by his rival, Robert Jenrick. Jenrick claimed that UK special forces are “killing rather than capturing” terrorism suspects, sparking a heated debate. Tugendhat believes Jenrick’s comments show a “fundamental misunderstanding” of military law and how special forces operate.
Jenrick Defends His Position
In a campaign video shared on social media, Robert Jenrick, the former immigration minister, claimed that UK special forces kill terrorists because, if captured, European courts might free them. He explained that his statement was in line with comments made by former defense secretary Ben Wallace, who shared concerns about European laws making it hard to hold terrorists. Jenrick stated, “Our special forces are killing rather than capturing terrorists because our lawyers tell us that if they are caught, the European court will set them free.”
Tugendhat’s Concerns About Misinterpretation
Speaking to Sky News, Tugendhat said he disagreed with Jenrick’s view. “What he said is wrong, and it shows a misunderstanding of military operations and the law of armed conflict,” he said. Tugendhat also expressed worry that such comments could mislead people into thinking that British forces don’t give terrorists a chance to surrender, which isn’t true.
Jenrick Stands by His Remarks
Despite the criticism, Jenrick defended his stance in an interview with BBC Radio 4. He explained that European human rights laws sometimes lead to situations where military commanders are forced to take more lethal actions, such as calling in a drone strike, instead of sending in ground forces to capture suspects. Jenrick argued, “I don’t want to see our human rights laws stop our military from making the best decisions to protect their safety.”
Further Criticism from Political Rivals
Other political figures, including shadow home secretary James Cleverly, criticized Jenrick’s remarks. Cleverly emphasized that the British military follows strict international humanitarian laws and doesn’t resort to unlawful killings. “Our military is the most professional in the world, and they do not murder people,” he told Sky News.
Legal Experts Speak Out
Jenrick’s comments also sparked reactions from legal and military experts. Dominic Grieve, a former attorney general, called the video “astonishing” and said it contained several incorrect statements. Grieve added, “Most of it is nonsense. Leaving the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) will not solve these issues.”
Final Note
This debate highlights the ongoing discussion within the Conservative Party about military operations and the role of European laws in the UK’s fight against terrorism. While some believe that legal restrictions may limit military actions, others argue that British forces already operate within the highest standards of international law.
Read more:
- Easy Tips for Cutting Energy Costs This Winter
- UK’s Biggest Steel Factory Closes After 100 Years | Job Losses & Future Plans
- $6000 Payment for Seniors in 2024? Find Out the Truth, Eligibility & Payment Details
- Keir Starmer’s Meeting with Donald Trump to Strengthen UK-US Ties
- Key Updates on Prince Harry’s Visa and Tribute to Princess Diana
- UK Economy to Grow Faster Than Japan, Italy, and Germany This Year
- UK Petrol and Diesel Prices Drop Fastest This Year – Save £4 Per Fill-Up
- UK Debt Reaches 100% of GDP for First Time Since 1960s, Causing Major Financial Concerns
- UK Consumer Confidence Drops as Budget Worries Grow
