PM willing to consider changes to emergency deportation legislation
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has expressed his openness to amendments to the Rwanda Bill, stating that he is willing to make the legislation "even more effective." During a visit to a school in North London, Sunak acknowledged the concerns of right-wing Tories and their desire to improve the bill. However, any changes made must maintain the role of European courts and be respectable. The Prime Minister's comments come ahead of his trip to Italy, where he will discuss migration issues with Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni.
Battle to Save the Bill from Rebels
Prime Minister Sunak is facing a significant challenge in saving the Rwanda Bill from being rejected by rebels when the Commons reconvenes after Christmas. Hard-line Tory factions, known as the "five families," have threatened to "kill the Bill" as it currently does not fully strip the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) of its power to prevent deportation flights. Additionally, moderate One Nation Tories have stated that they will not support a Bill that disregards the Human Rights Act entirely.
Reaching Out to Sceptics
Despite the opposition, Sunak extended an olive branch to right-wing sceptics, emphasizing his willingness to improve the legislation. He stated that if there are ways to make the Bill more effective while maintaining the participation of the Rwandans and with a respectable legal argument, the government would be open to it. The Prime Minister believes that the legislation is strong and effective, and he urged critics to focus on stopping illegal migration rather than blocking the Bill.
PM Keen to Hear from MPs
A spokesperson for the Prime Minister confirmed that Sunak is eager to hear from Members of Parliament regarding the Rwanda Bill. The government maintains that the Bill is the right way forward and necessary to initiate deportation flights promptly. Home Secretary James Cleverly echoed this sentiment, stating that the Conservative Party is united in its goal to pass the Rwanda plan. Cleverly also expressed his willingness to engage with rebel MPs to understand their perspectives.
Looking Ahead
As the Rwanda Bill faces opposition from within the Conservative Party, the Prime Minister remains determined to tackle the issue of illegal migration. Sunak's focus is on getting the legislation on the statute books and ensuring the successful implementation of the deportation scheme. With ongoing discussions and potential amendments, the fate of the Rwanda Bill will be decided when Parliament reconvenes after the holiday break.
