Background

Suella Braverman, who previously served as Home Secretary, was removed from her position in November 2023. This came just over a year after her re-appointment by Rishi Sunak. Braverman had also briefly held the role under former Prime Minister Liz Truss in 2022. However, her departure was prompted by controversial remarks she made, which sparked calls for her dismissal from both the public and members of her own party.

Controversial Comments

Braverman faced outrage after suggesting that the Metropolitan Police showed favoritism during a pro-Palestine march on November 11. In an article for The Times, she claimed that the police were biased towards left-wing protesters by refusing to ban the demonstration. Braverman questioned why lockdown objectors received no leniency from law enforcement during the COVID-19 pandemic, while Black Lives Matter protesters were allowed to break rules. She also criticized the police's handling of right-wing and nationalist protesters compared to pro-Palestinian groups.

Pressure to Fire Braverman

Following the publication of her article, members of the Conservative party called for Braverman's dismissal. It was reported that she defied orders to edit her remarks, leading Downing Street to request changes. However, Braverman ignored these requests, causing frustration for Rishi Sunak. According to the ministerial code, all newspaper articles written by government officials must receive approval from No10. Failure to comply with this code can result in sanctions, including job loss.

Accusations of Inciting Violence

After clashes between fascist groups, police, and pro-Palestine protestors in London on November 11, Braverman was accused of inciting violence and hatred through her article. London Mayor Sadiq Khan blamed her words for the disorder, stating that they had made the police's job more difficult. Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf also called for Braverman's resignation.

Braverman's Statement and Replacement

Following the news of her departure as Home Secretary, Braverman released a brief statement expressing her gratitude for serving in the role and promised to provide more information in the future. It was later reported that Foreign Secretary James Cleverly would be taking over her position.