Watchdog Rebukes Former Home Secretary Suella Braverman for Publicly Criticizing Police Handling of Protests

Watchdog reproaches Suella Braverman for publicly denouncing protest policing methods

A study ordered by her during her tenure as Home Secretary indicates that the Conservative MP ought to have been more vigilant about the possibility of "any improper political interference" while rebuking the Metropolitan Police for their approach to managing pro-Palestinian protests.

Political correspondent @NifS

Tuesday, September 10, 2024, 09:

Ex-home secretary Suella Braverman faced criticism from an oversight body for her public critique of the Metropolitan Police's management of pro-Palestinian demonstrations in London.

In a sharply critical piece published by the Times last November, the Conservative MP accused the police of applying "double standards" by permitting what she labeled a "hate march" to proceed in London on Armistice Day. She argued that while right-wing demonstrators were "appropriately met with a strict response," pro-Palestinian groups were "mostly overlooked."

The Metropolitan Police maintained their stance on allowing the procession to proceed, citing that the conditions necessary for prohibition weren't satisfied. However, the widespread outrage culminated in chaotic confrontations, including a far-right rally at the Cenotaph, leading to 140 individuals being detained from both events.

Ms. Braverman, who was subsequently dismissed by Rishi Sunak following her intensified critique, had commissioned an investigation into "activism and impartiality in the police" during that period.

Upon its release on Tuesday, the publication criticized her approach, arguing that her objections should have been expressed confidentially.

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Head of police oversight Andy Cooke, who directed the investigation, described the circumstances surrounding the Armistice Day demonstrations before stating: "Both law enforcement and political figures need to be vigilant against the possibility of inappropriate political involvement.

"This encompasses both the possibility of real interference or the belief of interference, regardless of whether this belief is founded or unfounded. Typically, if such action is considered suitable, it should be conducted confidentially."

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Mr. Cooke mentioned that it's important to carefully balance the operational autonomy of chief constables with the requirements for accountability and governance.

He mentioned that high-ranking officials had described experiencing "inappropriate pressure or meddling from prominent political personalities," and the investigation revealed that "clear efforts to sway law enforcement tactics compromise the neutrality of the police and could diminish confidence among the public."

The head inspector urged police leaders, police and crime commissioners, mayors, and high-ranking officials to be highly vigilant regarding the dangers of inappropriate political interference, whether it is real or merely suspected.

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The document mentioned a case related to Mr. Sunak, in which he expressed his dismay over how a Jewish individual was handled by a police officer during a pro-Palestinian rally, as seen in a video. However, he reversed his stance and supported the police nine days afterwards when an extended version of the video providing more details emerged.

The report stated: "It is crucial for high-ranking officials to thoroughly verify their information prior to releasing statements that could negatively influence public views on police neutrality."

A spokesperson for the government stated: "Every day, our police officers encounter numerous challenges and perform their duties impartially and bravely to maintain public safety. It's crucial that they receive the necessary support.

"The administration is firmly committed to maintaining operational autonomy, a cornerstone of our law enforcement framework. We acknowledge the report and are dedicated to collaborating with police forces to evaluate the proposed suggestions."

The Conservative Party and Ms. Braverman have been reached out to for their responses.

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