Last week, Britain entered into a new treaty with Rwanda, aiming to overcome a court decision that had halted the government's plan to deport asylum seekers to the East African nation and a week later, Rishi Sunak has successfully averted a potentially damaging rebellion within the Conservative Party over his flagship bill during a crucial vote in the Commons.
The pivotal legislation received support at its second reading with 313 votes to 269, securing a majority of 44. This outcome provides a sigh of relief for the prime minister, who engaged in crisis talks throughout the day with various factions of the Conservative right to garner their support.
Despite this victory, the disagreement may persist, particularly if hardliners within the party continue to insist on amendments to strengthen the legislation by preventing interference from foreign courts—a stance opposed by moderates on the opposite wing.
Last month, the UK's Supreme Court declared the deportation plan incompatible with international human rights laws incorporated into domestic legislation. The new treaty, signed by Home Secretary James Cleverly, replaces a non-binding memorandum of understanding. According to Britain, the treaty ensures that Rwanda will not expel asylum seekers to a destination where their life or freedom would be endangered, a key concern highlighted by the court.
Following the initial Rwanda announcement, Robert Jenrick had resigned from his role as immigration minister, citing "strong disagreements" with the government regarding the Rwanda policy.
The Conservative Member of Parliament for Newark expressed scepticism about Rishi Sunak's emergency legislation aimed at revitalising the stalled asylum plan, believing it would not effectively address the legal challenges that have hindered the scheme. Jenrick shared his resignation letter on X, shortly after Home Secretary James Cleverly confirmed his departure in response to repeated questioning in the Commons.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak characterised the resignation as "disappointing" and expressed concern that it stemmed from a "fundamental misunderstanding of the situation."
