Nigel Farage has declared that his first act as prime minister would be to withdraw the United Kingdom from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), describing the move as essential to tackling illegal migration and rebuilding public faith in the political system. The Reform UK leader made the pledge in an exclusive interview with the Daily Express on the 10th anniversary of the Brexit referendum.
Farage: Leaving ECHR is 'just so obvious'
Speaking to Express political editor Martyn Brown, Farage stated that removing the ECHR from British law via the Human Rights Act 1998 would be his immediate priority. 'It absolutely has to be, because what it would do, not only is to give us the power to deport those that should not be here, but it might just re-establish some trust that voting actually counts for something,' he said.
Farage warned that failing to act risks democratic decay: 'One of my biggest worries about where we are as a country right now is if you begin to think that voting makes no difference because no one keeps their promises, and you lose faith in the democratic system, well then all you're left with is disobedience, disorder, you know, and a very dangerous future.'
Brexit anniversary sparks renewed call for sovereignty
The remarks were made during a special episode of the Daily Expresso news show, recorded in Farage's Clacton constituency to mark a decade since the 2016 referendum. He criticised successive governments for failing to capitalise on Brexit, particularly by remaining tied to the ECHR. 'We left the European Union, but we've been stuck with ECHR and I think it's just so obvious to me that has to go,' he told presenter Mark Dolan.
Political divide over human rights convention
The ECHR has faced mounting criticism from right-wing politicians for blocking the deportation of asylum seekers. The Conservative Party is also considering adopting a policy to leave the convention. However, the current Labour government has categorically ruled out withdrawal, affirming the UK's commitment to human rights and international obligations.
Reform UK's electoral prospects
Reform UK has topped opinion polls for over a year, fuelling speculation that Farage could become prime minister if a general election is called. The party's hardline stance on immigration and sovereignty continues to resonate with voters disillusioned by mainstream parties.
