‘Not all cultures equally valid’ when it comes to immigration, says Badenoch

Kemi Badenoch stated that "not all cultures hold the same value" when discussing criteria for immigration into the UK. She voiced her surprise at the significant number of recent immigrants who have expressed hostility toward Israel.

The Conservative leadership hopeful, who claims to communicate with “confidence and precision,” has urged the development of a fresh integration plan. This strategy should recognize that not all immigrants will simply leave behind any ethnic rivalries they carry when they arrive. While they may be physically present in the UK, their thoughts and emotions often remain tied to their homeland.

In an article for the Telegraph, Badenoch emphasized that the Conservative party “lost credibility because we repeatedly pledged to reduce immigration but did not follow through on those promises.”

“Our nation is not just a place for people to come and earn a living. It is our home,” she stated.

“When we invite individuals to join us, we hope they will embrace our values and make positive contributions to our community. Being a British citizen goes beyond just holding a British passport; it signifies a dedication to the UK and its citizens.”

Badenoch is competing for the Conservative leadership alongside Robert Jenrick, James Cleverly, and Tom Tugendhat. Each of the four candidates will have the opportunity to deliver a 20-minute speech at the conference on Wednesday. Afterwards, the field will be narrowed down to two finalists, with the winner announced on November 2nd.

She has tried to establish a firm stance on immigration, emphasizing that withdrawing from the European Convention on Human Rights will “not address all our immigration problems.” She advocates for a comprehensive approach that begins with defining the kind of nation we aspire to become.

When discussing her remarks later on the BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg, Badenoch implied that she considers cultures in which women have fewer rights than men to be "less valid."

She expressed that the focus shouldn't be on labeling cultures. Culture encompasses many aspects. She's not referring to food traditions but rather to customs and practices.

In cultures where women are discouraged from working, I've often encountered situations where I would knock on doors, only to be greeted by someone who would say, "I can't talk to you right now; I'll need to get my husband." I don't believe this perspective holds the same validity as our own cultural views.

In the opinion piece, I emphasized the importance of handling immigration effectively and ensuring we approach it correctly.

She went on to say, “I want to point out that it’s essential for us to maintain our values in this country and prevent it from becoming a place that millions globally are trying to escape.”

Sky News’ Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips also probed her about whether her comments in the newspaper were directed at Muslim immigrants. She stated, “We can't be naïve and think that immigrants will just leave behind their historical ethnic conflicts when they arrive, nor can we view all cultures as equally valid. They aren't. For instance, I'm taken aback by how many newcomers to the UK harbor animosity towards Israel. That kind of feeling shouldn't have a place in our society. It's important to acknowledge that the world has shifted.”

Badenoch responded: "That's because it's not just Muslim immigrants we're talking about. I make sure to choose my words wisely."

In denying the general accusation, she elaborated, saying, "However, there are individuals who subscribe to Islamist beliefs and political Islam, and they have a negative view of Israel. It's important for us to differentiate between these perspectives. This is why I avoid using a term that encompasses a wide range of people."

When questioned about her direct approach to communication, Badenoch stated that she would respond vigorously when confronted in a debate. She also dismissed the notion that her Nigerian heritage makes her unfit for British politics.

During the same interview, Badenoch mentioned that if she were the leader of the Conservative Party, she would reach out to Benjamin Netanyahu to offer her congratulations following the Israeli airstrikes that resulted in the death of the head of the Lebanese militant organization Hezbollah.

“I believe their actions were remarkable. Israel is demonstrating clear moral conviction in how it handles its adversaries and those who oppose the West."

"Hezbollah is a terrorist group, and I believe that if they can eliminate the leader of Hezbollah, it will contribute to greater peace in the Middle East,” she stated to Sky News.

Former Foreign Secretary James Cleverly called on Israel to approach the situation with “professionalism” and “restraint.”

The Tory leadership contender shared Badenoch's view that Israel is "surrounded by those who wish to harm them." However, Cleverly emphasized the importance of acting with professionalism and restraint.

Tom Tugendhat, another candidate for leadership, mentioned that he would encourage Iran to ease its tensions with Israel if he were to become the leader of the Conservative Party.