Investigation into Home Secretary's comments
The UK Home Secretary, Suella Braverman, has been disowned by Chancellor Rishi Sunak after she claimed that senior police officers "play favourites" with left-wing protesters. Downing Street is now investigating whether Braverman broke the ministerial code in a newspaper article before an anti-Israel march on Saturday.
Refusal to obey orders
Rishi Sunak had initially resisted calls to immediately sack Braverman, despite her refusal to tone down the article as requested by No10. In the article for The Times, Braverman argued that aggressive right-wing and nationalist protesters receive a stern response, while pro-Palestinian protesters who engage in similar behavior are largely ignored. She stated that there is a perception that senior police officers show favoritism towards certain protesters.
Reactions to Braverman's comments
Labour has criticized Braverman's remarks as "dangerous," warning that they risk inflaming tensions ahead of the Armistice Day march. Opposition leader Sir Keir Starmer described her as "out of control." However, some Tories have supported Braverman, with Miriam Cates stating that her language reflects the public mood and Sir John Hayes calling her the party's "only hope." Tech minister Paul Scully, on the other hand, accused Braverman of fueling hatred.
Importance to the Conservative Party
Despite the controversy, Braverman has garnered support within her own party. One senior Tory MP described her as "critically important" due to her connection with grassroots Conservatives who fully support her. However, another Tory MP suggested that Prime Minister Boris Johnson appeared weaker than his predecessor Liz Truss, who had previously sacked Braverman for using a personal email account.
Breaking convention
Former Chief Inspector of Constabulary Sir Tom Winsor criticized Braverman for crossing the line by questioning police independence, which goes against the convention. Downing Street, however, reiterated that the Prime Minister believes the police will operate without fear or favor.
