Home Secretary James Cleverly becomes the third official in the Home Secretary role to travel to Rwanda in pursuit of a migration treaty, following Priti Patel and Suella Braverman.
Back in April of the previous year, Priti Patel embarked on a journey to East Africa to advocate for a new strategy aimed at curbing illegal immigration: the proposal of sending migrants to Rwanda.
However, as we approach the end of 2023, the policy remains grounded despite numerous visits by politicians.
This time, the plan takes a different approach—an actual treaty, an internationally recognized agreement between two nations. This fresh attempt seeks to place the concept in a framework wher犀利士 e it can operate effectively and evade legal challenges that have stalled previous efforts.
The government’s stance is that significant challenges necessitate innovative solutions, emphasizing that repeating old strategies will yield the same results—a continuation of boat crossings that contradict the pledge to halt such activities.
Nevertheless, even if Rwanda agrees, the number of asylum seekers the country might accept is expected to be limited. Furthermore, the efficacy of the deterrent factor remains uncertain.
Ministers express hope, while Labour dismisses the initiative as futile. A senior Labour representative calculates and points out the elapsed time since the first planned flight to Rwanda was canceled and the subsequent increase in small boat crossings.
However, this is an issue that Labour may have to grapple with if they secure victory in the election. According to government officials, they are already implementing measures that align with Labour’s proposed strategies.
The crucial focus now shifts to the specifics outlined in the treaty. James Cleverly’s brief visit to Rwanda precedes his imminent return to unveil the new legislation associated with the treaty in the Commons.
The primary queries remain: Can this strategy be successful? Will it be effective? And when can it be realized? These questions lie at the core of this ongoing pursuit.
