Ministers Defend £150m Funding to Rwanda Amidst Deportation Controversy

Government justifies funding despite no migrants being removed

The UK government has faced criticism for providing an additional £150 million in funding to Rwanda, despite no migrants being removed as part of the deportation scheme. This brings the total amount sent to Kigali to £290 million, with £140 million already provided since the initial deal last year. The move comes as ministers argue that the cost of the funding is relatively small in comparison to the high expenses incurred from housing migrants in hotels.

Home Office defends decision in light of escalating hotel bills

Chief Home Office mandarin Sir Matthew Rycroft has admitted that £100 million was sent to Rwanda this year, with an extra £50 million expected next year. The top civil servant initially refused to disclose these figures during a parliamentary committee session, but later confirmed the payments. Home Secretary James Cleverly recently signed a new treaty with Rwanda, claiming that it has not cost the UK any additional money. However, there are associated costs such as funding legal aid for asylum seekers.

New immigration minister insists funding is value for money

New immigration minister Tom Pursglove has defended the funding, stating that it is a worthwhile investment if it helps to reduce the number of migrants staying in hotels. He argued that the current daily spend of £8 million in the asylum system is unsustainable. However, opposition Labour MP Yvette Cooper criticized the scheme, calling it a "total farce" and highlighting the wasted taxpayer money amounting to £290 million.

PM fights to save controversial deportation plan

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has reaffirmed his commitment to the deportation plan despite facing a rebellion from within his own party. He urged MPs to support him in "finishing the job" of stopping small boats from reaching the UK. However, he stopped short of making the forthcoming vote on the emergency legislation a "confidence" issue. The success of the plan is seen as crucial for Sunak, who has staked his premiership on getting deportation flights off the ground.