Priti Patel, a prominent figure in British politics, has served as the Secretary of State for the Home Department, a role she held from July 24, 2019, to September 6, 2022. Her political career began with a focus on Conservative Party policies and international development, culminating in her appointment as Home Secretary by Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
Patel has been the Member of Parliament (MP) for Witham, Essex, since her election in May 2010, consistently winning re-election with substantial majorities. She was born on March 29, 1972, in London to Indian parents who emigrated from Uganda. Her upbringing fostered a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. Following her education, which included an economics degree from Keele University and postgraduate studies in British government and politics at the University of Essex, Patel began her political journey working in the Conservative Party’s press office.
She held various roles within the party, including heading the press office for the Referendum Party and serving as an international development adviser for Conservative Party leader William Hague. Her first significant government role was as Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury from July 2014 to May 2015, followed by her appointment as Minister of State for Employment from May 2015 until July 2016. During this period, she focused on labor market policies and employment support programs.
In July 2016, Prime Minister Theresa May appointed Patel as Secretary of State for International Development. In this role, she oversaw the UK’s foreign aid budget and international development initiatives. However, her tenure ended in November 2017 after revelations of unauthorized meetings with Israeli officials during a holiday.
Patel’s appointment as Home Secretary in 2019 brought her to the forefront of immigration policy, counter-terrorism, and policing. She became known for her tough stance on immigration, advocating for stricter border controls and a points-based immigration system. Her tenure saw the introduction of several controversial policies, including plans to deport illegal immigrants to third countries for processing.
Despite her controversial policies and the allegations of bullying within the Home Office, which were investigated in an internal government inquiry, Patel has maintained a strong connection with her constituents in Witham. Her consistent electoral success, with majorities exceeding 15,000 votes in each election, demonstrates her strong local support.
Before entering Parliament, Patel worked in consultancy and had an international career. In November 2013, she was appointed by the Prime Minister as the first UK Indian Diaspora Champion, highlighting her commitment to representing the interests of the Indian community in the UK.
Priti Patel is married to Alex Sawyer, a marketing consultant and former Conservative councillor. The couple has a son.
