British home secretary Suella Braverman was sacked by prime minister Rishi Sunak at midday today. The background is most likely Braverman’s comments in connection with Saturday’s pro-Palestinian demonstration in central London.
The now sacked Braverman said that “criminal chants, placards and paraphernalia openly on display at the march mark a new low”. She also criticized the police for being biased in granting permits.
Criticism of Suella Braverman has been widespread since last week, when she accused the British police of bias for giving the green light to a large pro-Palestinian demonstration in London calling for a ceasefire in the war between Israel and Hamas on Saturday, known in the UK as Armistice Day.
In her remarks, Suella Braverman claimed that the streets of London were being used to “glorify terrorism” and that “further action” was needed to address the problems. She also stated that pro-Palestinian marches “cannot continue” and that tougher protest laws are being considered.
Braverman has on several occasions described pro-Palestinian demonstrations as “hate marches”, and this time she ironically thanked the London police for their “professionalism in the face of violence and aggression”.
One of the main criticisms has been that Braverman’s comments undermine the independence and public trust of the police.
This can’t go on. Week by week, the streets of London are being polluted by hate, violence, and antisemitism. Members of the public are being mobbed and intimidated. Jewish people in particular feel threatened. Further action is necessary. 3/3
— Suella Braverman MP (@SuellaBraverman) November 12, 2023
David Cameron makes a comeback
In connection with her sacking, Braverman warned Rishi Sunak. The now resigned cabinet minister promised she would “have more to say” after her removal from the home office.
Sunak has also faced anger from Braverman’s supporters on the Tory right, where some believe she was sacked for ‘speaking the truth’. Some even see her as a potential future leader of the Tory party – where she is profiled on issues such as migration.
Foreign secretary James Cleverly will temporarily take over as home secretary. It is also clear that former Prime Minister David Cameron will be the new foreign secretary.
Armistice Day in England, also known as Remembrance Day, is observed on November 11th each year to commemorate the end of World War I. It marks the day when the armistice was signed between the Allies and Germany in 1918, leading to a ceasefire on the Western Front.
The day is dedicated to remembering and honoring the sacrifices of those who served and died in the World Wars and subsequent conflicts. It is typically marked by a two-minute silence at 11 a.m. and the wearing of red poppies, a symbol of remembrance and hope.
