Starmer Calls the Controversial Scheme "Wrong" and "Hugely Expensive"
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has vowed to eliminate the Rwanda deportation plan, even if it manages to effectively deter illegal migrants from crossing the Channel. He made this announcement at the party conference before the Supreme Court showdown over the future of the scheme. Starmer referred to the plan as "wrong" and "hugely expensive."
Government Accuses Labour of Being Soft on Immigration
Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick responded to Starmer's intervention by accusing the Labour Party of being opposed to border controls and tolerating criminality. A government source also labeled Starmer as just another human rights lawyer from North London who prioritizes party interests over those of the British people.
Rwanda Deportation Plan Faces Legal Challenges
The deportation plan aims to forcibly remove asylum-seekers to Rwanda, but it has faced challenges from human rights lawyers. While the plan can only begin with a handful of individuals, ministers hope to scale it up to hundreds or even thousands. However, even if the scheme is approved by the Supreme Court, it may still face opposition from the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg.
Starmer Dismisses the Effectiveness of the Scheme
Starmer expressed his skepticism about the scheme's effectiveness, stating that it's a small number of individuals being sent to Rwanda. He argued that the real issue lies in addressing the problem at its source. Despite government claims that the Rwanda scheme would reduce illegal crossings, the numbers have not decreased.
Sir Keir's Vision for Economic Growth
During a BBC interview, Starmer discussed his plans for economic growth if Labour were to take power in the upcoming election. He claimed that growth could occur rapidly and that within months of Labour forming a government, they could bring in the necessary investment. He also mentioned that investors are currently holding off due to instability and that he wants to move the country forward under a new era of growth.
Deputy Leader Angela Rayner's Promises
At the conference, deputy leader Angela Rayner pledged that if Labour were to seize No10, they would repeal new strike laws within 100 days. Additionally, she vowed to enhance protections for gig workers, ban zero-hour contracts and fire-and-rehire practices, and strengthen employment rights. Rayner also stressed the importance of closing the gender pay gap, making work more family-friendly, tackling sexual harassment, and bolstering union power through collective bargaining.
