UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak declared that no deportation flights to Rwanda will occur before a July 4 snap election. This means that a victory for the Labour Party could prevent the Conservative Party’s controversial deportation scheme from proceeding.
Sunak emphasized the significance of this policy during the first day of campaigning. With the Labour Party currently holding a substantial lead in opinion polls, it has pledged to abolish the deportation plan if it assumes power.
Speaking at a campaign event, Sunak reiterated his commitment to the deportation flights, which were initially scheduled for July. Despite legal challenges and criticism, Sunak has remained steadfast in his support for the plan, even after it was deemed unlawful by the UK Supreme Court.
In response to the Supreme Court ruling, Sunak negotiated a new treaty with Rwanda and passed legislation to bypass the ruling. However, potential legal challenges persist.
Labour leader Keir Starmer has vowed to scrap the deportation plan immediately upon taking office. Additionally, in response to rising numbers of asylum seekers, Starmer proposed establishing a new border enforcement unit and utilizing counter-terrorism measures to combat people smuggling.