Calls for Prime Minister to dismiss home secretary over her stance on protests

Rishi Sunak is facing pressure to dismiss the home secretary, Suella Braverman, following an article she wrote accusing the police of bias. Braverman claimed that aggressive right-wing protesters were rightfully met with a stern response, while pro-Palestinian crowds were largely ignored. The prime minister, however, has expressed his full confidence in her. This controversy has caused a divide within the Conservative party, with some arguing for her dismissal and others supporting her. As the home secretary, Braverman is responsible for the government department overseeing law and order, while the police independently enforce laws across the UK. The chair of the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) has warned that policing could be undermined if public debate influences decision-making. Conservative MP Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, treasurer of the influential 1922 Committee, criticized Braverman for publicly sharing her views on the protests, suggesting that the prime minister will need to have a serious conversation with her to calm the situation. If Braverman does not comply, it would be up to Sunak to decide whether to reshuffle his cabinet. One ally of Braverman, Miriam Cates MP, defended her by accusing protestors of stirring up tensions. However, former Tory attorney general Dominic Grieve and Conservative MP Sir Bob Neil both believe that Braverman's position is untenable. Braverman's article in The Times was not approved by Downing Street, and suggested changes from No 10 were ignored. The article made claims about police bias and warned against a lenient approach at the Armistice Day protest. It also criticized senior police officers, which was deemed unacceptable by Grieve. The Metropolitan Police anticipates a large rally on Saturday, prompting concerns of violent clashes with counter-protesters. Some have called for the pro-Palestine march to be cancelled on Armistice Day, citing disrespect. The commissioner of the Met Police, Sir Mark Rowley, explained that protests may only be banned if there is a serious threat of disorder, which has not been reached. Braverman's article expressed a perception that senior officers show favoritism towards protesters. Former Met Police Ch Supt Dal Babu found her remarks troubling and warned that her language could embolden far-right groups. The controversy comes just days before Braverman finds out whether the government's Rwanda plan for migrants is lawful, as the Supreme Court is set to deliver its verdict.