Suella Braverman, the former Home Secretary, has launched a blistering attack on Rishi Sunak, claiming that his Safety of Rwanda bill "won't work" and "will not stop the boats." The comments come in the midst of a civil war within the Tory Party, following the resignation of Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick over the emergency legislation.
"We don't have a death wish"
In her appearance on BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Braverman echoed Jenrick's criticism of the bill, but denied claims that the Tories have a "death wish." She argued that stopping the boats is crucial and that the government needs to deliver on its promises in order to secure victory in the next general election.
"It won't work and it will not stop the boats"
While Braverman acknowledged that there are some aspects of the new bill that should be welcomed, she expressed doubts about its effectiveness as a whole. She highlighted the complexities involved in detaining and removing people, as well as the legal challenges that may arise. According to Braverman, the bill will not work and will not achieve its intended goal of stopping the boats.
"Toughest immigration legislation ever"
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has defended the emergency measures, describing them as the "toughest immigration legislation ever." The bill will disapply certain human rights laws in asylum cases in Rwanda, with the hope that British courts will reject any challenges. However, the bill does not automatically override the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).
Resignation statement raises concerns
Shortly after the planned law was published, Robert Jenrick issued a resignation statement, criticizing the bill and calling for stronger protections. He expressed concern that the current legal challenges could paralyze the scheme and stressed the importance of keeping promises on immigration. His resignation has been deemed "deeply worrying" by Brexiteer MP Mark Francois.
