UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced that his newly formed government will not pursue the previous administration’s policy of deporting asylum seekers who arrive in small boats to Rwanda. This decision effectively ends the controversial scheme before any flights could take place. Starmer had previously pledged to scrap the Conservative government’s Rwanda plan, a policy that drew significant criticism from human rights groups. However, with migration remaining a key electoral issue, he will face pressure to find alternative solutions to the influx of migrants crossing the English Channel from France.
At a press conference, Starmer stated, “The Rwanda scheme was dead and buried before it started. It’s never been a deterrent (to small boat crossings).” He emphasized his unwillingness to continue with policies that he believes are ineffective deterrents.
The announcement came following Starmer’s first Cabinet meeting as the new Labour government takes on the monumental task of addressing a range of domestic challenges. The UK faces a period of economic hardship, political turmoil, and public fatigue stemming from years of austerity measures. The Labour Party’s landslide victory in the recent general election, marking a change in government after 14 years, has brought about a new era in British politics.
Starmer, having secured 412 out of 650 parliamentary seats, officially assumed the role of Prime Minister after being invited by King Charles III to form a government. He expressed his commitment to national renewal and vowed to lead a “government of service.” In his initial speech outside 10 Downing Street, he acknowledged the public’s cynicism towards politics but emphasized his government’s dedication to rebuilding trust.
With the new government facing a daunting array of challenges, including the ongoing migrant crisis, the economic downturn, and the need to rebuild public trust, Starmer’s commitment to tackling domestic issues takes center stage. As he embarks on this new chapter in British politics, the world will be watching to see how he addresses the complex challenges that lie ahead.
