Government's flagship plan faces opposition
Last night, MPs rejected ten changes made by Peers to the government's key Rwanda deportation plan. The amendments, seen as attempts to sabotage the legislation, were overturned as Chancellor Rishi Sunak pushes forward with plans to deport migrants to Rwanda this Spring.
Debate continues in the second chamber
The legislation will now head back to the second chamber where Peers will have another opportunity to propose further alterations. Among the rejected changes were attempts to ensure the bill complies with both domestic and international law and the implementation of safeguards to declare Rwanda as a safe destination.
Minister defends Rwanda as a safe haven
Home Office minister Michael Tomlinson defended Rwanda's track record of integrating asylum seekers and refugees, stating that the government has provided evidence supporting Rwanda's safety. He criticized the rejected amendments as "wrecking" attempts.
Controversy over cost comparison
During the debate, Labour MP Neil Coyle raised eyebrows by comparing the cost of sending asylum seekers to Rwanda with Virgin Galactic's space tourism. He pointed out that sending six people into space is cheaper than deporting one person to Rwanda, questioning the policy and its high cost.
Audit Office raises concerns over expenses
The National Audit Office recently revealed that the deportation scheme could cost taxpayers nearly £2 million for the first 300 asylum seekers sent to Africa. In contrast, a ride with Virgin Galactic costs around £356,000 per person.
More updates on this ongoing debate are expected.
