On September 6, 2025, Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform UK party, took the stage at the party’s annual conference in Birmingham, England. As he spoke about his party’s stance on withdrawing from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), he was met with opposition from fellow MPs in the House of Commons.
Farage’s 10-minute rule bill, which aimed to take the UK out of the ECHR, was ultimately voted down by a majority of 58. But it was not without a heated debate and some rather unprofessional behavior from some of his colleagues.
As Farage passionately argued that the ECHR is “unfinished business” and that “Brexit cannot be completed while we’re subject to a foreign court,” most of the Labour and Conservative benches were empty. However, the Liberal Democrats and other opposition MPs from smaller parties turned up, not to support Farage, but to heckle him.
One MP even pointed out how Farage had “promised to leave” the UK back in 2017 if the EU withdrawal was a disaster. This prompted Farage to try and quieten them by saying, “children, be quiet” – a remark that was met with laughter and surprise from the chamber.
But Farage did not let the interruptions deter him. He continued to make his case, stating, “We are not sovereign all the while we are part of the ECHR, the European Council and its associated court, it’s as simple as that.” However, another MP shouted out, “Putin’s pet!” – a derogatory remark that was met with a witty response from Farage, “It’s marvellous to see the intellectual levels of debate in this place, it really is.”
The deputy speaker, Judith Cummins, had to intervene and remind the MPs that Farage had the floor for his 10-minute rule bill. But even as he tried to make his point about the ECHR potentially overruling the UK’s decisions on small boat immigration, he was met with laughter and protests from his opponents.
Despite the backlash and unprofessional behavior from some MPs, Farage’s bill was defeated by 154 votes to 96. But the Reform UK party’s head of policy, Zia Yusuf, later criticized the treatment of Farage on social media, stating, “The behavior of MPs towards Nigel Farage today was a disgrace. We will take great pleasure in ensuring the largest group of MPs ever are turfed out in a single election next time around. Couldn’t happen to a nicer bunch.”
This incident once again highlights the deep divide and lack of respect among MPs in the House of Commons. While it is expected for there to be disagreements and debates, it is important for all MPs to maintain a level of professionalism and respect towards their colleagues, regardless of their political beliefs.
Farage’s proposal to withdraw from the ECHR may have been met with opposition, but it is a valid point to consider. The ECHR, which was established in 1953, aims to protect human rights and fundamental freedoms in Europe. However, as the UK moves towards a post-Brexit era, it is important to reassess the country’s relationship with the ECHR and ensure that its sovereignty is not compromised.
Farage’s argument that the UK cannot truly be sovereign while still being subject to a foreign court is a valid concern. It is important for the UK to have control over its own laws and decisions, without being overruled by an external body.
While the debate on the ECHR and Brexit continues, it is important for all MPs to engage in respectful and productive discussions. Personal attacks and unprofessional behavior only serve to undermine the credibility of the House of Commons and the democratic process.
In the end, it is the responsibility of all MPs to work together towards the betterment of the country and its citizens. Let us hope that in the future, debates in the House of Commons are conducted with respect and professionalism, rather than petty insults and heckling.
