UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak is set to face a significant setback in the government's plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda, as the first flight is now expected to be delayed until at least December. The delay comes after Home Secretary Suella Braverman's promise of an imminent take-off, as the Supreme Court plans to fast-track the top case. However, due to the court's summer break, the case will only be heard after they return in October.
Critical Legal Decision
The Supreme Court's decision on the legality of the scheme to send asylum seekers to Rwanda is eagerly awaited. The court is expected to wrap up the case within six weeks after its October session begins. This ruling follows the Court of Appeal's determination in June that the plan was "unlawful", with two judges opposing the scheme due to concerns over the safety of deporting migrants to potentially dangerous countries. However, one judge disagreed with this assessment.
Pledge to "Stop the Boats"
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has made a significant campaign promise to "stop the boats," which serves as a central pillar of his platform ahead of a possible election next year. In March, Home Secretary Suella Braverman expressed that flights to Rwanda could start as early as September. However, the Court of Appeal's ruling in June presented a major obstacle to this plan.
Government Confidence and Potential Roadblocks
Despite the setback, government ministers remain confident in their ability to overturn the split decision. If successful, flights to Rwanda could commence by Christmas. However, campaigners and charities are prepared to take the case to the European Court of Human Rights for a final judgment. This could result in further delays, potentially extending beyond the upcoming election.
International Considerations
Prime Minister Johnson recently stated that other countries are exploring "similar solutions" to manage the influx of migrants. The UK's approach to sending asylum seekers to Rwanda may serve as a model for these countries.
