Faith Nyasuguta
U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak affirmed on Monday that deportation flights to Rwanda could commence within 10-12 weeks, aiming to resolve the Parliamentary deadlock over a crucial policy promise ahead of an anticipated election later this year.
Speaking at a press briefing, Sunak addressed the public directly after his recent commitment that Parliament would remain in session until the legislation passes. The House of Commons is set to debate the bill later in the day, followed by deliberations in the House of Lords.
Sunak urged the unelected House of Lords to cease obstructing legislation enabling authorities to deport select asylum-seekers to Rwanda, in line with his pledge to “stop the boats” ferrying migrants to the U.K. unlawfully.
Expressing frustration, Sunak emphasized, “Enough is enough,” while confirming the booking of commercial charter planes to transport asylum seekers.
Although he refrained from disclosing specific figures regarding the number of individuals expected on upcoming flights, Sunak asserted, “We are ready. Plans are in place, and these flights will go, come what may. No foreign court will stop us from getting flights off.”
The bill encountered a two-month delay as it navigated between the two houses of Parliament, with the Lords proposing amendments that were consistently rejected by the Commons. While the Lords lack the authority to quash the legislation, their assent is necessary for it to be enacted.
The Conservative Party intends to utilize deportation to Rwanda as a deterrent, aiming to dissuade migrants from risking the perilous journey across the English Channel on inflatable boats.
However, the plan has faced legal challenges and vocal opposition from migrant advocates, who contend that it violates both national and international laws and is fundamentally inhumane.
The current legislation, dubbed the Safety of Rwanda Bill, is a response to a Supreme Court ruling that halted deportation flights due to concerns over the safety of migrants sent to Rwanda.
Following the negotiation of a new treaty with Rwanda to enhance protections for migrants, the government introduced the legislation designating Rwanda as a safe country.
Independent House of Lords member Alex Carlile criticized the amendments as an attempt to rectify “ill-conceived, poorly drafted, inappropriate” legislation that runs counter to existing U.K. and international legal standards.
Expressing dismay, Carlile remarked, “What Rishi Sunak is asking Parliament to do is say that an untruth is a truth.”
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