Supreme Court unanimous decision
The Supreme Court has ruled that deportation flights to Rwanda are unlawful. The judges unanimously agreed that the East African state is not safe for resettling illegal migrants, as they could potentially be sent back to their country of origin.
PM insists on plan B
Despite the ruling, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has stated that he has a plan B and will not give up on his mission to stop illegal immigration.
Defeat ahead of expected general election
This defeat marks a significant blow to the government's efforts to stop illegal immigration, especially with an expected general election on the horizon.
Rwanda scheme deemed unlawful
In a summary of the ruling, Lord Reed, the President of the Supreme Court, stated that all five justices agreed with the Court of Appeal that the Rwanda deportation scheme is unlawful.
Rwanda responds
A spokesperson for the Rwandan government expressed disagreement with the ruling, stating that Rwanda is a safe third country for asylum seekers and refugees.
Call for reevaluation of asylum policies
Katy Chakrabortty, Head of Policy and Advocacy at Oxfam GB, called on the government to reevaluate its asylum policies in light of the ruling.
Ministers prepared for potential outcomes
Despite the setback, government ministers claimed to have been preparing for potential outcomes and have drafted contingencies.
Criticism from outgoing Home Secretary
Outgoing Home Secretary Suella Braverman criticized the Prime Minister for not having a credible Plan B in her resignation letter.
New policy needed
Tory MP Natalie Elphicke called for a fresh policy and a new Cross Channel Agreement with France to address the issue of illegal immigration.
Tory calls to leave European Court of Human Rights
The Supreme Court ruling is likely to intensify calls from Tories to leave the European Court of Human Rights.
Rwanda plan under scrutiny
The government's plan to rehouse asylum seekers in Rwanda has faced opposition and scrutiny since its announcement in 2022.
