Suella Braverman will not face an investigation into whether she broke the ministerial code over her handling of a speeding offence. Following claims that the Home Secretary asked civil servants to arrange a one-to-one speed awareness course for her, after being caught speeding in 2022, Sunak consulted with both Braverman and his independent ethics adviser, Sir Laurie Magnus. In a letter to Braverman, Sunak says Magnus advised that ‘further investigation is not necessary’:

‘On the basis of your letter and our discussion, my decision is that these matters do not amount to a breach of the Ministerial Code. As you have recognised, a better course of action could have been taken to avoid giving rise to the perception of impropriety. Nevertheless, I am reassured you take these matters seriously. You have provided a thorough account, apologised and expressed regret.’

This means Braverman remains safe in her role – despite suggestions from opposition parties that the incident ought to spell the end of her career. Sunak’s decision also comes after Tory MPs on the right of the party put in a show of support for the Home Secretary in the Commons, when Labour tabled an Urgent Question on the issue.

So what does this mean for Braverman’s position in the long term? It’s clear from the briefings over the past few days that the Home Secretary has critics both in the civil service and her own party.

The Home Secretary has critics both in the civil service and her own party

Sunak is already finding himself being accused of being too weak to sack Braverman for fear of upsetting the right of the party. However, there are plenty of backbench MPs – such as Charles Walker – who are not exactly fans of the Home Secretary who take the view that this is not a sackable offence. Instead, there are growing complaints from MPs that ‘the blob’ is leading to an environment where ministers can be sacked on technicalities rather than more serious breaches of the ministerial code.

It means Sunak’s decision will broadly be welcomed by his party. As for Braverman, the more important test for her longevity in the Home Office will be whether she can grip the issue of small boats.