The British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's attempts to curb record immigration levels in the UK have faced a major setback when the country's highest court ruled that his plans to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda were unlawful. However, after months of negotiations and a new treaty with Rwanda, the controversial bill was finally passed in Parliament, paving the way for the deportation of tens of thousands of refugees. The move has been met with criticism, with critics denouncing it as inhumane and cruel. This news comes hours after the deaths of five people, including a seven-year-old girl, in a separate attempt to cross the English Channel from France.
Rwanda Deportation Scheme Setback and Sunak's Immigration Crackdown
Background
In April 2022, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced plans to deport asylum seekers arriving illegally in the UK to Rwanda for processing. The move was seen as an attempt to deter people from making perilous journeys across the English Channel.
However, the scheme faced legal challenges, with critics arguing that it was inhumane and violated international law. In June 2022, the High Court ruled that the scheme was unlawful.
After months of negotiations, the UK and Rwanda signed a new agreement in October 2022, clearing the way for the deportation flights to resume.
Controversy
The scheme has faced widespread criticism from human rights groups, charities, and opposition politicians. They argue that sending refugees to a country with a poor human rights record is inhumane and violates their basic rights.
The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has also criticized the plan, saying it "risks shifting the burden of responsibility" for protecting refugees to a country with limited capacity.
Criticism and Setback
In December 2022, the UK government was dealt a fresh blow when the Court of Appeal ruled that the deportation flights could not proceed. The court found that there was a real risk of asylum seekers being subjected to torture and ill-treatment in Rwanda.
Despite the setback, Sunak has vowed to press ahead with his plans. The government is expected to appeal the decision to the Supreme Court.
Aftermath
The controversy over the Rwanda scheme comes amid a wider crackdown on immigration in the UK. Sunak has pledged to reduce overall immigration figures and introduce stricter border controls.
Critics argue that these measures are unnecessary and harmful, and that they will damage the UK's economy and reputation.
Top 5 FAQs
Why is the UK deporting asylum seekers to Rwanda? To deter illegal migration and reduce immigration levels.
Is the scheme legal? The legality of the scheme is currently under dispute. The High Court ruled it was unlawful, but the Court of Appeal later overturned that decision.
When will the deportations start? The deportations cannot start until the legal challenges have been fully resolved.
How many asylum seekers will be deported? The government has not specified how many asylum seekers will be deported, but it is estimated to be in the tens of thousands.
Is the scheme humane? Critics argue that the scheme is inhumane and violates the rights of refugees. However, the UK government maintains that it is a safe and necessary measure.
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