Former Home Secretary Suella Braverman has voiced strong opposition to the UK government’s proposed Rwanda law, stating unequivocally that it “won’t work” in curbing the influx of asylum seekers arriving by boat. Braverman’s comments come in the wake of Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick’s resignation, who asserted that the law did not go far enough.
Braverman expressed her concerns about the effectiveness of the proposed legislation. “The reality is, and the sorry truth is, it won’t work,” she said. “It will not stop the boats.” Braverman went on to urge Chancellor Rishi Sunak to reconsider the government’s stance on the Rwanda law, emphasising that without substantial changes, the policy is destined to fail.
The government’s plan involves sending asylum seekers to Rwanda, but legal challenges have stalled its implementation. The proposed law aims to make it more difficult for courts to block this policy. However, both Jenrick and Braverman argue that the legislation lacks the necessary toughness to address the challenges at hand.
Braverman defended her stance, asserting that her motivation is rooted in honesty. When confronted about her critical views on party leaders and her propensity for making controversial statements, Braverman maintained that she sought to be truthful, even if uncomfortable.
Regarding Sunak’s future, Braverman stated that she wants him to succeed and emphasised that her criticism is directed at the policies, not personal ambitions. She urged Sunak to fulfil the promise to stop the influx of boats, underscoring the importance of listening to MPs and making informed policy decisions.
In response to criticism from former Supreme Court justice Lord Sumption, who argued that the bill does prevent legal challenges to Rwanda flights, Braverman disagreed, citing clear sections allowing various claims in court. She asserted her belief that asylum seekers will bring legal challenges, and the courts will likely block flights to Rwanda.
The government’s assertion that Rwanda would not agree to a deal breaching international law raised questions. Braverman admitted to being surprised by the statement and suggested an “intellectual incoherence” in the government’s position.
As the debate over the Rwanda law continues, Braverman’s critique adds to the challenges facing the government in its attempt to address the complex issue of asylum seekers and boat arrivals.
Kiki Garba
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