Victoria Atkins confirms imminent implementation of Rwanda deportation scheme
Victoria Atkins, the Health Secretary, has announced that Rwanda deportation flights are set to take off "within weeks" as the Home Office is fully prepared to implement the scheme. Despite the readiness, details about the airline responsible for carrying out the deportations remain undisclosed.
Speculation surrounding airline choice for deportation flights
PM Rishi Sunak has hinted at deportation flights commencing in spring without specifying a definite date or revealing the airline that will facilitate the flagship policy. Reports suggest that Rwanda's state-owned airline declined the UK government's offer to transport asylum seekers to avoid association with the controversial policy.
Ministers confident in securing carrier for deportation plan
Tory Party deputy chair Rachel Maclean expressed assurance that the government will secure a carrier for the deportation flights, emphasizing the necessity of operationalizing the plan to serve as a deterrent. The Rwanda Bill, aimed at overcoming the Supreme Court's block on the flights, is set to return to Parliament for further deliberation.
Legal challenges anticipated by charities supporting asylum seekers
Charities advocating for asylum seekers are reportedly gearing up to launch legal challenges against the deportation scheme once the Rwanda Bill is passed in Parliament. Despite potential legal hurdles, the Home Office remains steadfast in its commitment to initiating the deportation flights promptly after necessary legislative measures are in place.
