New Treaty with Rwanda in the Works

James Cleverly, the Home Secretary, is planning to travel to Rwanda next week in an effort to start deporting Channel migrants by the spring. The Home Secretary hopes to sign a new treaty with the East African nation, with insiders suggesting that a deal is close to completion. This move comes after the Supreme Court struck down the original deportation plan.

Delays and Concerns Addressed

The Rwanda scheme, which is a key part of Rishi Sunak's promise to "stop the boats" crossing from France, was delayed due to disputes over Britain's involvement in the Rwandan asylum and legal system. However, sources believe that these issues have been resolved. The new treaty would also address concerns about the potential mistreatment of genuine asylum seekers who are returned to Rwanda.

Credit to James Cleverly

Sources have praised James Cleverly, who built relationships during his time as Foreign Secretary, for his efforts in pushing forward with the deportation plan. However, emergency legislation still needs to be passed in the UK before the plan can be implemented. The government hopes to bring this legislation to Parliament before the Christmas break, and they have not ruled out sitting over the festive period to get it through.

Support and Opposition

While the Rwandan government has reiterated its commitment to Rishi Sunak's scheme, there is increasing division among Tory MPs. Some right-wing MPs are urging ministers to abandon the European Convention on Human Rights, while "One Nation" Tories have written to the Prime Minister expressing their refusal to support any attempts to override the Strasbourg court.