Fylde MP Andrew Snowden Supports Tory Leader Kemi Badenoch On ECHR Exit
Fylde’s MP Andrew Snowden has voiced strong support for Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch’s position on the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), arguing that the UK must now take decisive action to address long-standing issues around immigration, law enforcement, and community fairness.
In a forthright statement, Mr Snowden said the time had come for politicians to “stop dancing around a problem and deal with it head on,” insisting that successive governments have failed to deliver on promises to control illegal immigration and restore order.
He argues that the ECHR has repeatedly stood in the way of these efforts, enabling prolonged legal challenges that, in his view, prevent effective action. Backing Ms Badenoch’s stance, he said leaving the ECHR would be a crucial step in rebuilding public confidence and strengthening border controls.
Mr Snowden pointed to ongoing concerns over small boat crossings in the English Channel, saying many people feel frustrated by the system’s inability to remove individuals with no legal right to remain in the UK. He believes exiting the ECHR would help establish a stronger deterrent and allow the government to regain control.
However, he stressed that the issue extends beyond immigration alone. Citing the now-scrapped Rwanda deportation scheme as an example, he said attempts to introduce tougher measures have been repeatedly blocked by legal challenges linked to the convention.
Closer to home, the Fylde MP highlighted concerns raised by residents about unauthorised traveller encampments. Referencing incidents in recent years on Lytham Green, at Park View, and near Singleton, he said communities often feel powerless when faced with such situations.
According to Mr Snowden, current legal protections—again linked to the ECHR—make it difficult for police and local authorities to act swiftly. He described this as “not fair” and “not sustainable,” arguing that stronger enforcement powers are needed.
Under proposed Conservative measures, police would be given greater authority to remove unauthorised encampments at the request of landowners and prevent repeat offences. Plans would also include making it a clear criminal offence to trespass with a vehicle after being directed to leave, as well as removing requirements to provide alternative sites before action can be taken.
Mr Snowden said these proposals form part of a broader effort to “take back our streets” and restore a sense of order, adding that human rights laws should protect law-abiding citizens rather than be used as a shield by those breaking the rules.
He concluded by framing the issue as one of national sovereignty and accountability. “Laws passed in this country should be applied in this country,” he said, arguing that Parliament must remain sovereign and enforcement must carry real weight.
“Leaving the ECHR is not about abandoning rights,” he added. “It is about restoring balance, common sense, and accountability.”
