Bernard Jenkin

Bernard Jenkin

Bernard Jenkin was born on April 9th, 1959

Full Name: Bernard Jenkin
Place of Birth: London, England
Zodiac Sign: Unknown
Spouse: Unknown
Children: Two daughters
Profession: Politician, Businessman
Political Party: Conservative
Shadow Cabinet: Defence Secretary

A British politician who served as Shadow Secretary of State for Defence, known for his conservative views and contributions to UK defence policy.

Written by: Liam O'Sullivan Liam O'Sullivan

Bernard Jenkin: The Outspoken Critic of the European Union

Bernard Jenkin, a stalwart member of the British Conservative Party, has been a vocal critic of the European Union, fervently advocating for the United Kingdom's sovereignty and national identity. As the current Member of Parliament (MP) for Harwich and North Essex since 2010, Jenkin has been a prominent figure in British politics, unafraid to challenge the status quo.

Early Life and Education

Bernard Jenkin was born on April 9, 1959, in Wood Green, London, to Patrick Jenkin, a Conservative MP and Cabinet minister, and Monica Jenkin (née Graham). He is a descendant of the renowned scientist Fleeming Jenkin. Jenkin's academic pursuits took him to Highgate School, the voluntary aided William Ellis School, and Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, where he excelled in English literature, graduating with a BA honors degree in 1982.

Rise to Prominence

Jenkin's political career began in 1987 when he stood as the Conservative candidate in Glasgow Central, although he came second in the general election. Undeterred, he went on to work for Ford and the private equity company 3i as Manager of Legal & General Ventures from 1989 to 1992. His big break came in 1992 when he was elected as MP for Colchester North, winning 51.5% of the vote and a majority of 1,526 votes.

Parliamentary Career

Jenkin's parliamentary career has been marked by his unwavering Euroscepticism. In 2010, he became the chairman of the Public Administration Select Committee, where he consistently questioned the European Union's influence on British politics. As one of the Maastricht Rebels during John Major's premiership, Jenkin has been a vocal advocate for the UK's national sovereignty, believing that EU membership undermines the country's autonomy.

Brexit and the Rise of Euroscepticism

In the 2016 EU referendum, Jenkin was a vocal supporter of Brexit, advocating for the UK's withdrawal from the European Union. His stance earned him a prominent position in the Eurosceptic pressure group Leave Means Leave, which he continues to support to this day.

Personal Life and Legacy

Bernard Jenkin's commitment to British politics has been unwavering, with a career spanning over three decades. His unapologetic stance against the European Union has earned him both praise and criticism, solidifying his place as one of the most influential figures in British politics. As the current chairman of the Liaison Committee, Jenkin continues to shape the direction of British politics, leaving an indelible mark on the country's political landscape.

Key Milestones and Achievements

Timeline
1959
Born in London
Bernard Jenkin was born on April 9, 1959, in London, England. He would go on to become a businessman and politician.
1980
Started Business Career
Jenkin began his business career in the 1980s, working in the financial sector and eventually becoming a director at a leading investment firm.
1990
Entered Politics
In the 1990s, Jenkin entered politics, becoming a Conservative Party member and eventually winning a seat in Parliament in 1992.
2000
Served as Shadow Minister
Throughout the 2000s, Jenkin served as a Shadow Minister for Defence and later as Shadow Minister for the Cabinet Office.
2010
Chairman of Public Administration Committee
In 2010, Jenkin became Chairman of the Public Administration Committee, overseeing Parliamentary scrutiny of government policy and administration.
Bernard Jenkin

Bernard Jenkin Quiz

Bernard Jenkin is known for his views on which political spectrum?

Score: 0/5
FAQ
What are Bernard Jenkins views on defence policy?
Bernard Jenkin is a prominent figure in UK defence policy, advocating for increased military spending and a strong NATO alliance. He has also spoken out on the importance of UK defence capabilities in the face of global security threats.
What is Bernard Jenkins role in the UK Parliament?
Bernard Jenkin is the Conservative MP for Harwich and North Essex, and has held various shadow ministerial positions, including Shadow Secretary of State for Defence.
How has Bernard Jenkin contributed to UK-EU relations?
Bernard Jenkin has been a vocal critic of the EU, advocating for Brexit and a more sovereign UK. He has also spoken out on the need for the UK to maintain strong trade relationships with European partners.
What are Bernard Jenkins views on national security?
Bernard Jenkin has emphasized the importance of national security, calling for increased investment in defence and intelligence agencies to counter threats from terrorism, cyber attacks, and other global security risks.
Has Bernard Jenkin been involved in any notable parliamentary committees?
Yes, Bernard Jenkin has been a member of the Defence Select Committee and the Public Administration Select Committee, using his expertise to scrutinize government policy and hold ministers to account.

Related People:

Iain Duncan Smith

72 Years Old

A British politician who served as Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, known for implementing welfare reforms and overseeing the introduction of Universal Credit. He's a prominent figure in UK politics, particularly in the Conservative Party.

Michael Howard

85 Years Old

A Welsh lawyer and politician who served as the Leader of the Conservative Party and Leader of the Opposition from 2003 to 2005, known for his tough stance on law and order.

William Hague

65 Years Old

A British politician who served as First Secretary of State and led the Conservative Party, known for his diplomatic efforts and advocacy for human rights and democracy. He played a significant role in shaping UK foreign policy.

David Cameron

59 Years Old

The former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom who led the country from 2010 to 2016, known for his role in the Brexit referendum and austerity measures.

George Osborne

55 Years Old

Former Chancellor of the Exchequer who oversaw the UK's economy during a period of austerity, implementing significant spending cuts and tax reforms. Known for his role in shaping the country's economic policy.

Theresa May

69 Years Old

The second female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, leading the country through Brexit negotiations and implementing policies on national security and education. Known for her strong stance on immigration and law and order.

Boris Johnson

62 Years Old

Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and former Mayor of London, known for his charismatic leadership and Brexit advocacy. He led the UK's withdrawal from the European Union.

Philip Hammond

70 Years Old

Former Chancellor of the Exchequer, overseeing UK's economy and finances, implementing fiscal policies and budgets. Known for his cautious approach to public spending and Brexit negotiations.