The former Home Secretary calls for drastic action from the Government on illegal migration and post-Brexit promises.

Priti Patel has issued a stark warning to current Home Secretary Suella Braverman, emphasising that time is running out to fulfil the Government’s pledge to stop small boat crossings in the English Channel. Speaking at the Conservative Democratic Organisation conference in Bournemouth, Patel underscored the challenges faced by the Government in delivering on their promise and suggested that drastic measures may be necessary.

In a conversation with GB News host Dan Wootton, Patel highlighted that ending Channel crossings was complex and “difficult,” pointing to the need for practical legislative implementation. She stated, “The clock is ticking on the Government when it comes to delivery… They’ve made a big play on this… so they’re going to have to do something pretty drastic now.” Patel also hinted at a potential exit from the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) if deemed necessary to achieve their goals, although she acknowledged the political challenges of securing parliamentary support for such a move.

Patel’s comments come amidst broader discontent within the Conservative Party, particularly among Brexiteers, over the Government’s decision to scale back its plan to eliminate EU-era laws. Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch recently announced that only around 600 laws would be revoked, as opposed to the original goal of 4,000. Patel warned that failing to deliver on the promised regulatory overhaul could erode public trust and undermine the Government’s credibility.

During the conference, Patel stressed the importance of targeted legal reforms over expansive legislative agendas, urging her party to focus on swift and effective action to maintain voter trust and ensure future electoral success.