PM welcomes changes to emergency deportation legislation
Today, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed his willingness to consider amendments to the Rwanda Bill, stating that there is room for improvement in order to make it "even more effective." During a visit to a North London school, Sunak emphasized the importance of respectable changes that do not weaken the role of European courts.
Italy visit to discuss migration challenge
Sunak is scheduled to travel to Italy on Saturday, where he will meet with Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni to discuss the issue of small boats and migration challenges. The two leaders have previously spoken about the shared perspective on addressing illegal migration, with Italy being at the forefront of the issue on Europe's borders.
Tory rebels threaten to "kill the Bill"
Upon the return of the Commons after Christmas, Sunak faces opposition from hard-line Tory factions known as the "five families." These rebels have threatened to "kill the Bill" because it does not completely remove the power of the European Court of Human Rights to halt deportation flights. Moderate One Nation Tories have also voiced concerns about a Bill that disregards the Human Rights Act.
Sunak reaches out to right-wing sceptics
In an attempt to address the concerns of right-wing sceptics, Sunak extended an olive branch and expressed his openness to improving the legislation. He emphasized that the aim is to maintain the participation of the Rwandans in the scheme while making the Bill more effective. Sunak also highlighted the importance of getting the legislation on the statute books to initiate the scheme.
Conservative Party united in stopping illegal migration
Sunak criticized the Labour Party for voting against the legislation, stating that the Conservative Party is united in its commitment to stopping illegal migration. He urged all parties to support the Bill and tackle the problem of small boat arrivals. Home Secretary James Cleverly echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the party's unity in achieving the Rwanda plan.
PM keen to hear from MPs on Rwanda Bill
Sunak's spokesperson confirmed his eagerness to hear more from MPs regarding the Rwanda Bill. The government believes that the Bill is the right way forward and is necessary to facilitate removal flights. The PM's official spokesperson urged MPs to provide their input to ensure the success of the legislation.
Sunak's determination to tackle small boat arrivals
In an interview with The Spectator, Sunak expressed his determination to address the issue of small boat arrivals. He highlighted the success in reducing the number of such arrivals by a third, despite a previous increase. Sunak emphasized the importance of cracking down on illegal migration and making progress on removal flights.
