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Keir Starmer has criticized Robert Jenrick's statements about not seeing another white face in areas of Birmingham, stating the politician was difficult to regard credibly.

Leadership Campaign Accusations

The prime minister implied that his observations were linked to a stealth Tory bid for leadership and said he did not believe they painted a true picture the area of the Birmingham district.

I find it difficult to regard Robert Jenrick's statements as credible; he's obviously continuing his leadership campaign.

Jenrick has been criticized for igniting a wave of divisive sentiment after he reiterated his complaint despite backlash from figures including the ex-Tory mayor of the region, Andy Street.

Local Response and Defense

The prime minister, who did not directly engage the comments, said he had supported Andy Street's criticisms of the MP.

• The former mayor had told the media the remarks were incorrect and described the area as a very integrated place.
• In my view, Andy Street's comments were accurate, Starmer said. Having served as mayor for an extended period, Andy Street possesses deep familiarity with the locality.

Kemi Badenoch, defended him, saying he had made a factual statement and that there was nothing wrong with making observations.

But she also told BBC Breakfast: In my opinion, the discussion should not focus on the number or appearance of individuals seen on streets.

Party Divisions

Mel Stride became the first senior Tory to disassociate from his colleague over the comments, telling a gathering that they were phrases I would have avoided.

Jenrick repeatedly informed journalists at the event that he supported the comments and did not retract them as it would be wrong to shut down an important debate that the nation needs to engage in about integration.

When a Sky News journalist put it to him that his remarks could encourage far-right groups, he said it was an absolutely disgraceful and ridiculous inquiry.

Original Remarks

In his original remarks, Jenrick said the area was among the least cohesive locations I have visited. In fact, in the hour and a half he was filming news there he observed no other white individuals.

This is not the nation I desire to reside in. I prefer a country with proper integration. Skin color or religion is not the issue—naturally not. However, I advocate for people coexisting together, not leading separate existences. That is not the ideal lifestyle for our country.