By Riches Soberekon
British Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, has announced that there has been a significant decrease in the number of migrants crossing illegally into the UK from Europe. Sunak stated that the figures have gone down by about a third. He emphasized that this achievement was made possible through the combined efforts of the government and their hard work in returning individuals to their home countries, like Albania.
During his speech in Worksop, Nottinghamshire, Sunak also expressed his determination to revive the UK government’s plan to send asylum-seekers to Rwanda without violating international law. However, legal experts have expressed doubts about the feasibility of this plan, and critics have urged the government to abandon it, citing the financial cost and potential damage to Britain’s international reputation.
Earlier this week, the UK Supreme Court ruled against the government’s plan, stating that Rwanda is not deemed a safe country for migrants to be sent to. Despite this unanimous verdict, the government remains committed to the policy, as they believe it will discourage people from making dangerous journeys across the English Channel in small boats.
Sunak revealed that negotiations are underway with the Rwandan government to address the concerns and loopholes associated with the plan. This includes finding a solution to prevent Rwandan authorities from forcibly returning migrants to their home countries. The Prime Minister emphasized his determination to ensure that domestic courts do not impede the implementation of the plan.
The government has outlined that once the perceived risks are eliminated, they will introduce legislation in Parliament declaring Rwanda as a safe country for asylum-seekers. It has been over a year and a half since the UK initially struck a deal on this matter.
