The Rwanda Bill, a controversial legislation aimed at deterring illegal migration by deporting asylum seekers to Rwanda, has been approved by the United Kingdom Parliament. The Bill’s passage comes after weeks of debate and amendments, including opposition from the House of Lords. The legislation seeks to prevent further legal challenges to the stalled asylum scheme after the Supreme Court ruled the plan unlawful.
Proponents of the Bill argue that it will act as a deterrent to migrants attempting the perilous journey across the English Channel in small boats. However, critics have condemned the policy as an ‘extortionately expensive gimmick’ that will not address the root causes of migration. They also raised concerns about Rwanda’s safety for asylum seekers and the exemption of former British military interpreters from deportation.
The Bill’s passage has been met with mixed reactions. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak welcomed the move, stating that the legislation will ‘change the global equation on migration’ and ‘save lives.’ However, Labour’s shadow home secretary, Yvette Cooper, criticized the policy, calling it a ‘failing scheme’ that will cost more than half a billion pounds for just 300 people, less than one percent of asylum seekers in the UK.
Despite the concerns raised, the government has vowed to ensure that the first flights carrying asylum seekers to Rwanda will leave in 10 to 12 weeks. It remains to be seen whether the Rwanda Bill will achieve its intended goal of deterring illegal migration and reforming the UK’s asylum system.
