Hardline MPs criticize legislation hours before crucial vote
Rishi Sunak's plan to implement a removal scheme with Rwanda is in jeopardy as right-wing Tories express their disapproval just hours before a crucial vote. A group of lawyers representing these MPs, known as the "Star Chamber", argue that the proposed legislation is an "incomplete solution" to prevent future removals from being challenged in court.
"Five Families" demand tougher measures
Five Conservative caucuses, representing the right-wing factions of the party, have demanded that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak strengthen the bill ahead of the upcoming Commons showdown. Downing Street, however, warns that any amendments to toughen the legislation could result in Rwanda pulling out of the removal scheme, jeopardizing the entire plan.
Make-or-break moment for Sunak
Rishi Sunak now faces a critical 24 hours as he attempts to salvage his policy and get the removal scheme off the ground. The verdict from the Star Chamber, delivered at a meeting of like-minded Tory factions, could determine the fate of the Rwanda bill in the Commons. The legislation is set for its "second reading" tomorrow night, and a defeat would pose a significant crisis for the Prime Minister.
Tory factions unite against the bill
The European Research Group (ERG), the Common Sense Group, the New Conservatives, the Northern Research Group, and the Conservative Growth Group, collectively known as the "Five Families", have sufficient members to block the Rwanda bill in the upcoming Commons vote. This comes as a blow to Rishi Sunak, who has staked his premiership on the success of this policy.
Call for improvements to the bill
Following the meeting, Mark Francois, chair of the ERG, stated that the bill provides only a partial solution to the issue of legal challenges in UK courts, which are being used to delay and prevent the removal of illegal migrants to Rwanda. Danny Kruger, leader of the New Conservatives, emphasized the need for the bill to meet the expectations of all MPs.
Further discussions and charm offensive
A subsequent meeting has been scheduled, where right-wing Tories will listen to former Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick, who resigned over the perceived weakness of the plan. In an attempt to garner support, Rishi Sunak has invited these influential MPs to No10 for a breakfast meeting. The Prime Minister must prevent 29 MPs from rebelling or 53 from abstaining in order to secure the success of the plan.
Disagreements over human rights and amendments
The resignation of Robert Jenrick sparked a Tory civil war, as he argued for stronger legislation. While the proposed bill disallows certain elements of the Human Rights Act, it does not fully override it or the European Convention on Human Rights, as some MPs, including Suella Braverman, had hoped. The Star Chamber insists that "very significant amendments" are necessary to ensure the bill aligns with the intended policy.
