New Payment Adds to Total Bill of £290 Million

The UK government has come under fire for handing Rwanda an additional £150 million, bringing the total amount sent to the country to £290 million. This comes as no migrants have been removed under the controversial deportation scheme. Home Secretary James Cleverly recently signed a new treaty with Rwanda, claiming that it has not cost Britain any new money. However, there are additional costs involved, such as funding legal aid for asylum seekers.

Home Office Defends the Payment

The Home Office has defended the £150 million payment to Rwanda, stating that it is value for money if it helps to get migrants out of hotels. The government argues that the current spending of £8 million a day in the asylum system is not sustainable and that alternative solutions need to be explored. However, critics, including Labour's Yvette Cooper, have called the scheme a total farce and have questioned the government's spending of taxpayers' money.

Prime Minister Vows to Continue with Rwanda Plan

Despite facing a backlash from within his own party, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has vowed to continue with the Rwanda deportation plan. He has urged rebellious MPs to support him in stopping small boats and has appealed for their help in "finishing the job." However, he has not made the forthcoming vote on the emergency legislation a confidence issue, signaling that he is not willing to risk his premiership over the matter.

Rishi Sunak Battles to Maintain Support for Deportation Flights

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has been working to maintain support for the deportation flights plan. He is determined to get removal flights going by the spring and has been trying to prevent any resignations within his team that could hinder the plan's progress. The success of the scheme has become a key focus for Sunak, who has staked his premiership on immigration reform.