No. 10 Advised: Rwanda Plan Has '50% at Best' Chance of Success Before Election
The UK government's Rwanda immigration policy only has a 50% chance of being implemented before the next general election, as per the legal team’s advice to Downing Street. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is facing strong internal opposition over the policy.
Legal experts warn that the European Court of Human Rights could halt related deportation flights, a significant concern during a challenging week for Sunak. UK’s principal legal advisor, Sir James Eadie, supports the policy's defense.
The proposed law, which has caused a rift in the Conservative Party, allows ministers to disregard European Court injunctions, generating debates over potential human rights violations an accusation Sunak rejects. Immigration minister Robert Jenrick resigned in protest, criticizing the bill's ineffectiveness and failing to bypass international laws that have, to date, blocked transfers of asylum seekers to Rwanda.
The cost of the Rwanda plan has nearly doubled from £140 million to £290 million, with further examinations expected after demands to disclose full expenditure details. Jenrick has publicly warned of voter backlash due to inadequate immigration control measures, accusing Sunak of not fulfilling his pledges.
Amidst the turmoil, Gavin Barwell referred to the Conservative Party as "unleadable" and alluded to internal ambitions aggravating divisions. He also emphasized that immigration is overshadowing equally crucial issues to voters like the cost of living and healthcare.
A Home Office representative affirmed the government's commitment to expedite the migration plan, stating that the new bill is the strictest to date and highlighting Rwanda's readiness and capability to support relocated individuals.