Humza Yousaf has reiterated calls for the UK’s home secretary to be sacked over “fanning the flames” of tension leading up to Armistice Day disturbances in London.
The First Minister said Suella Braverman should not be allowed to resign following clashes between “far-right” protesters and police during demonstrations and counter-action around Remembrance Day memorials in the English capital.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is facing intensifying calls to sack Braverman after she described pro-Palestinian protesters “hate marchers” and accused the police of bias for letting the rally go ahead on remembrance weekend.
Yousaf described Braverman’s position as “untenable” and called for Sunak to axe her at the earliest opportunity.
Speaking to journalists as he arrived at Remembrance Day commemorations in Edinburgh, the FM said: “The result of that [Braverman’s comments], of course, is, as we saw, individuals on the far right actively attacking the police.
“I’m afraid that the Home Secretary’s position, in my view, is untenable.
“She should not even be allowed to resign, she should just be sacked by the Prime Minister because no Home Secretary should be fanning the flames of division – quite the opposite.”
Defence secretary Grant Shapps said “a week’s a long time in politics” when asked whether his Cabinet colleague will stay in her role until next weekend.
Asked about Mrs Braverman’s political future, Mr Shapps told Sky News’ Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips programme: “As you know, and I know well, a week’s a long time in politics. I never make predictions about these things.”
Pressed on calls for her removal, he said: “The make-up of the Cabinet is entirely a matter for the Prime Minister.
“He will decide that in his own time.”
Follow STV News on WhatsApp
Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
