Reform UK's shadow chancellor, Robert Jenrick, was overheard calling his interview on ITV's Good Morning Britain a "waste of time" in an awkward hot mic moment after the segment concluded. The former Conservative politician made the remark after being questioned by hosts Susanna Reid and Ed Balls.
During the interview, Jenrick had been pressed on the early release of prisoners, particularly in relation to the case of PC Andrew Harper, who was killed in the line of duty. He also addressed claims about a £37,500 donation to his 2024 Tory leadership campaign, stating he had not been contacted by the Metropolitan Police and believed no investigation was underway.
As the interview ended and the camera cut away, Jenrick's microphone remained live. He was heard saying, "Well, that was a waste of time." Hosts Ed Balls and Susanna Reid paused before Balls responded, "Oh dear. I think it wasn't a waste of time. I think Robert Jenrick gave us very clear answers." Reid added, "And we're very grateful for his time."
Following the exchange, a video of the hot mic moment was briefly shared on Good Morning Britain's X feed before being reuploaded. Jenrick responded on X, criticizing the current government and stating Reform UK's plans to cut energy bills.
The discussion on early prisoner releases touched on the case of PC Harper, who was killed in 2019. Two individuals convicted of his manslaughter, aged 17 at the time, may be eligible for early release under new sentencing guidelines set to come into effect in September. Approximately 6,000 criminals are expected to be released under this scheme.
Jenrick had criticized the government's handling of the early release policy, stating it was a "disgrace." Reid challenged him on his own government's responsibility, given his past role as a minister. "Because you are part of the past government, that's why," she stated.
The interview also touched on comments made by Defence Secretary Wes Streeting, who was overheard joking about the new Justice Secretary, Alex Norris, wanting to "let them all out." Jenrick called such comments a "joke on the British people and the victims of these appalling crimes." Streeting later apologized for any offense caused, explaining the remark was a jest and not intended to downplay the seriousness of the issue.