In a recent development, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has asserted that the controversial plan to deport illegal migrants to Rwanda, which was signed into law on Thursday, is already proving effective as a deterrent.
This statement comes amidst claims made by Ireland’s deputy premier, Micheál Martin, regarding a rise in migrants crossing the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic. Sunak, speaking to Sky News, defended the plan, stating that the reported increase in border crossings demonstrates its efficacy despite no migrant flights having taken off yet.
He emphasised that the deterrent effect is already noticeable, as people are wary of attempting illegal entry. Sunak explained that the plan aims to dissuade individuals from undertaking the perilous journey across the English Channel to reach the United Kingdom.
The surge in arrivals via small boats in Britain, reaching 45,774 in 2022 from a mere 299 four years earlier, underscores the urgency of the issue. Despite legislative approval, potential court challenges loom, potentially delaying deportation flights.
I have serious #HumanRights concerns about United Kingdom’s #RwandaBill. Its adoption by the UK Parliament raises major issues about the rights of #asylum seekers and the #RuleOfLaw.
👉 https://t.co/wPSmmMlTBw pic.twitter.com/9iSFgdZs0d— Commissioner for Human Rights (@CommissionerHR) April 23, 2024
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