Radical Move to Combat Illegal Migration

Rishi Sunak, the UK's Chancellor of the Exchequer, plans to ignore certain human rights laws in an effort to get Rwanda flights up and running and put an end to what he calls the "scourge" of illegal migration. This comes as the Prime Minister unveils what is being touted as the "toughest immigration legislation ever," which will grant him the power to overrule European judges who meddle in UK affairs.

A New Bill and Treaty

Sunak's new Safety and Rwanda bill, introduced alongside a recent treaty, aims to initiate the first removals by next spring. By disapplying certain elements of the Human Rights Act and legally declaring Rwanda as a "safe" country, the government hopes to eliminate legal challenges to their flagship scheme.

Overriding the European Court of Human Rights

The bill will also allow ministers to override edicts from the European Court of Human Rights that may prevent planes from taking off, similar to the incident in 2022 when a plane was grounded at the last minute. While this move may anger centrist Tory MPs, Sunak argues that it is necessary to combat the ongoing migrant crisis.

A Strong Stance Against Illegal Migration

Sunak stated, "We can no longer tolerate the endless scourge of illegal migration on our country. It is costing us billions of pounds and innocent lives, and that is why we are taking action to put a stop to it and make clear once and for all that it is Parliament that should decide who comes to this country, not criminal gangs."

He further added, "Through this new landmark emergency legislation, we will control our borders, deter people from taking perilous journeys across the channel, and put an end to the continuous legal challenges filling our courts. We will disapply sections of the Human Rights Act, specifically in the case of Rwanda, to ensure our plan cannot be stopped."

Positive Response from Right-Wing Tories

Right-wing Tories have expressed support for the proposals, with some describing them as "good" and "encouraging."

A Warning for the Tories

Suella Braverman, former Home Secretary, issued a warning that the Conservative Party could face "electoral oblivion" within months unless Sunak addresses the issue of illegal migration. In a passionate statement in the House of Commons, she criticized the influx of arrivals coming into the country on small boats and questioned who truly governs Britain.