Suella Braverman has defected to Reform UK, bringing with her a history of controversial statements and actions. The former Home Secretary, twice sacked from the role, has faced criticism for hardline comments on immigration, homelessness, and policing, as well as breaches of the ministerial code.
In 2022, Braverman described her 'dream' of seeing asylum seekers deported to Rwanda, a remark widely condemned as trivialising the plight of refugees. She was later sacked as Home Secretary under Liz Truss for sending an official document from a personal email, a breach of the ministerial code. Despite this, Rishi Sunak reappointed her six days later.
Braverman was eventually dismissed by Sunak in 2023 after writing an article for The Times accusing police of bias in handling pro-Palestinian protests, which she likened to Northern Ireland demonstrations. The article was published without clearance from No10, raising further questions about her conduct.
She also sparked outrage by describing homelessness as a 'lifestyle choice' and proposing fines for charities aiding rough sleepers. In another incident, dubbed 'Speedy Sue', she faced allegations of seeking special treatment after being caught speeding, though she denied any wrongdoing.
Braverman's language on immigration drew accusations of far-right rhetoric, including referring to an 'invasion' of the south coast. She also attacked opponents as a 'coalition of chaos' and the 'tofu-eating wokerati'. Her remarks on grooming gangs, singling out British-Pakistani men, contradicted Home Office data and were widely condemned.
