Unelected Peers Delay Rwanda Deportation Scheme
The Rwanda deportation scheme is facing additional delays as unelected peers recently inflicted fresh defeats on the Government, causing further setbacks to Rishi Sunak's flagship Rwanda Bill.
Stand-Off in Parliament
Despite strong backing from MPs earlier in the week, the Lords tore apart Rishi Sunak's Bill to tackle illegal migrants, prolonging the legislative process. This stand-off, supported by human rights activists, ensures the law will not be passed before Parliament's Easter break.
"Ping Pong" Process
The Bill will now undergo a second round of "ping pong" between the two Parliamentary chambers, where changes made by the Lords will be reviewed by MPs. Despite potential Parliament dates set aside before the recess, No10 officials remain confident in meeting the goal of launching deportation flights this spring.
Labour's Response
Labour frontbencher Lord Coaker blamed the Government's timetable management for the delay, emphasizing that it is not their fault that the Bill will return after Easter.
Legal Challenges and Supreme Court Ruling
The legislation and a treaty with Rwanda aim to prevent legal challenges to the deportation scheme following the Supreme Court's ruling that the initial plan was unlawful. The proposed measures would require judges to consider Rwanda a safe destination and grant ministers the authority to bypass emergency injunctions.
