Tory Lawyers Reject Plan as Not "Watertight"
Tory right-wingers have issued a direct challenge to Chancellor Rishi Sunak, warning that if the Rwanda plan is too weak and fails, it will have disastrous consequences for the party. The influential "star chamber" of Tory lawyers from the right of the party has rejected the Prime Minister's plan as not "watertight," delivering a major blow to his leadership.
"Big Question Marks" Over the Bill
Leading Tories Danny Kruger and Miriam Cates, co-founders of the influential New Conservatives group, have expressed concerns over the Rwanda Bill, stating that there are "big question marks over the bill." While they emphasize the need for party unity to fight against Labour, they also stress that it is important to unite around a policy that actually works, rather than one that is ineffective.
The Verdict Plunges PM's Plans into Turmoil
The rejection of the Rwanda plan by the star chamber has thrown the Prime Minister's plans into chaos. Many Tory MPs were waiting for the panel's advice before deciding whether to support the bill or not. The panel's negative verdict is expected to fuel opposition from Tory right-wingers, who may attempt to amend the bill. Tory moderates from the One Nation group are also set to deliver their verdict on the bill.
Home Secretary Pleads for Unity
Home Secretary James Cleverly has called for unity within the party, urging warring factions to support the bill. He highlights that illegal immigration is unsafe, unfair, and unsustainable, and emphasizes the need to act on the British people's demands. Cleverly urges his colleagues to seize the moment and back the bill.
Sunak Vows to "Stop the Boats"
Chancellor Rishi Sunak remains determined to push forward with the plan to stop illegal migration. He pledges to take significant steps to secure the borders and thwart smuggling gangs. Some Tory right-wingers are supporting the bill and encouraging others to do the same, emphasizing that tough action is necessary to address the issue.
A Crisis for Sunak's Premiership
Rishi Sunak now faces the biggest crisis of his premiership as he tries to convince rebellious MPs not to vote down his flagship border plan. However, there are MPs who are determined to defeat the bill and even topple Sunak from his position. The future of the Rwanda plan hangs in the balance.
MPs James Daly and Philip Davies are among those supporting the bill, emphasizing the importance of passing the legislation to deliver on the British people's priorities. However, there are Tory MPs who are openly hostile towards Sunak and are determined to vote against the bill.
Overall, the fate of the Rwanda plan remains uncertain as the tensions within the Tory party continue to escalate.