Internal Assessment Reveals Potential Cost Savings
Rwanda will be considered value for money if it manages to deter just a third of small boats, as stated by the Home Office. This assessment comes as the government aims to pass a new law this week.
Surge in Illegal Crossings
534 illegal migrants crossed the Channel in 10 dinghies on Sunday, marking the highest daily total for the year so far. Since January, 6,264 individuals have made the dangerous journey from France, showing a 28% increase compared to 2023.
Plans for Rwanda Flights
Chancellor Rishi Sunak reiterated his commitment to launch flights to Rwanda by the end of spring. The flagship Bill related to this initiative has been sent back to the Lords, with potential approval expected today for it to become law by the end of the week.
Costs and Deportation
Sir Matthew Rycroft, the Home Office's top civil servant, mentioned that the costs of deporting asylum seekers to Kigali would be justified if a third of small boats could be stopped, potentially reducing annual figures by 10,000. An additional £50 million would be allocated to Rwanda with the passing of the Safety of Rwanda Bill.
Challenges and Controversies
The Home Office faced criticism for underestimating the costs of converting old RAF bases into migrant facilities, with expenses for Wethersfield and Scampton airfields surpassing initial estimates. Plans for the Bibby Stockholm barge to reach full capacity by June are still underway.
