Rishi Sunak Warns Peers Blocking Rwanda Plan to Consider ‘Protecting Innocent Lives’ Amid Record Channel Crossings

Record Day of Channel Crossings

Rishi Sunak has cautioned peers obstructing the Rwanda plan to consider the importance of "protecting innocent lives" in light of the busiest day of Channel crossings this year. On Monday, 401 illegal migrants arrived in just seven small boats, cramming an average of 57 individuals into each dinghy.

Political Backlash

Since the Prime Minister took office in October 2022, over 40,000 migrants have crossed the Channel. Downing Street expressed frustration after the House of Lords delivered five defeats on the government's deportation plan and is expected to continue amending the legislation in the coming weeks.

Call for Urgent Action

No10 has emphasized the urgent need to launch flights to Kigali and urged peers to cooperate to prevent perilous journeys across the Channel. The ongoing back-and-forth between the House of Lords and the Commons is set to continue until a resolution is reached.

Rising Channel Crossings

With good weather conditions, 728 migrants crossed the Channel within 48 hours, bringing the annual total to 2,983 so far this year, exceeding last year's figures at the same time. Downing Street credited returns deals with Albania and France for curbing the influx of boats.

Demands for Action

Former Home Secretary Dame Priti Patel called for increased efforts from the French authorities to combat smuggling gangs, citing substantial financial support provided by the UK. Labour's Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper criticized the Prime Minister for failing to fulfill his promise of halting the arrivals.