Suella Braverman, the UK Home Secretary, is facing allegations that she utilised “racism sentiments and discriminatory narratives” in government.
Nine legal organisations have filed complaints with the Bar Standards Board. This body oversees criminal barristers in England and Wales. Her rhetoric about illegal immigration to the UK and child sex offence allegations levelled at members of the British Pakistani community.
Braverman is a trained criminal barrister who has not practised law since his election to the House of Commons in 2015.
She is nonetheless bound by some professional standards, such as the expectation that barristers “appropriately conduct themselves.”
In a letter to the Bar Standards Board, the nine organisations, which include the Society of Asian Lawyers, the Association of Muslim Lawyers. And the Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants, accuse Braverman of using racism language. Citing her statement earlier this year that many British Pakistani men “hold cultural values totally at odds with British values.” In response to allegations of widespread child sex offences in some parts of the UK.
Baverman violated professional norms.
They also note her suggestion that if stricter measures to reduce immigration and police, the country’s borders are not imposed. One hundred million asylum seekers could enter the UK, bringing “heightened levels of criminality” and referring to people arriving on Britain’s south coast as an “invasion.”
According to the letter, Braverman violated three norms that could erode faith in the profession. Harm the public’s opinion of its integrity, and violate anti-discrimination guidelines.
“It is critical that legal professionals maintain the highest levels of integrity, impartiality, and professionalism.” “Ms Braverman’s comments are a clear violation of these standards and should not go unchallenged,” according to the letter.
“Not only are these comments highly inaccurate and offensive. But they also perpetuate harmful stereotypes and contribute to a climate of hatred and prejudice.”
“Ms Braverman, as a member of the legal profession, should be held to a high standard of professionalism and ethical conduct.” Her views threaten the legal profession’s credibility and potentially harm the UK’s reputation as a tolerant and inclusive nation.”
“We believe that Ms Braverman‘s comments incite violence against the British Pakistani and Muslim communities. As well as refugee communities, fueling racist sentiments and discriminatory narratives,” the letter continues.
The issue of child sex offences committed by members of the British Pakistani community in the UK. It has sparked significant political debate in recent months. The signatories referred to a 2020 Home Office report. That suggested insufficient evidence to assess the role played by British Pakistani men. But added that the majority of sex offenders in the country were white.