British Home Secretary James Cleverly has arrived in Rwanda to sign a new treaty, part of the UK government’s revised asylum plan. This move comes after the UK Supreme Court ruled against the original deportation scheme, finding it in violation of international human rights laws. The new treaty, which aims to address the court’s concerns, is central to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s mission to make the plan legally watertight.
British Home Secretary James Cleverly shakes hands with the British High Commissioner to Rwanda, Omar Daair, as he arrives at Kigali International Airport in Rwanda, where he will sign a new treaty with Rwanda. December 5, 2023. Ben Birchall/Pool via REUTERS
Under this scheme, the UK government intends to send migrants arriving by irregular means to Rwanda. Cleverly has asserted that Rwanda is a safe country, deeply concerned with the rights of refugees, and expressed eagerness to work with Rwandan counterparts to address the global challenge of illegal migration. The deal involves an initial payment of 140 million pounds to Rwanda, with the possibility of additional funding.
However, the plan has faced criticism from various quarters. Labour’s Yvette Cooper described the scheme as a gimmick, highlighting the government’s repetitive actions without addressing the root causes of dangerous boat crossings. She emphasized the need for action against criminal gangs profiting from these crossings, likening the government’s approach to Groundhog Day.
Chair of the Home Affairs Select Committee Yvette Cooper MP.
Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick expressed confidence in meeting the government’s manifesto commitment to reduce net migration below 250,000 before the next election, despite current figures reaching a record-breaking 745,000. Jenrick, known for his hardline stance on migration, also stated his belief that flights to Rwanda would commence before the next election, in contrast to some colleagues’ skepticism.
This treaty signing is a crucial development in the UK’s approach to asylum seekers and illegal migration. It represents the government’s ongoing efforts to control migration flows, amidst domestic and international scrutiny over its methods and adherence to human rights obligations.
