I have received a large amount of correspondence from a number of constituents who are concerned about the Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill. I hope to provide some reassurance and address some of the worries raised.
The UK has a longstanding tradition of ensuring rights and liberties are protected domestically and of fulfilling our international human rights obligations.
I am aware that following the decision by the Supreme Court that the Rwanda agreement is currently unlawful, the Government has introduced the Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill, alongside a Treaty, to confirm that Rwanda is a safe country. The Home Secretary has made clear that this legislation does not change the UK's relationship with the ECHR.
Illegal migration remains a serious problem that requires a practical and effective solution. Until this issue can be properly resolved unscrupulous people traffickers will continue to profit from helping vulnerable men, women and children to make these illegal, dangerous and unnecessary journeys.
The Government is determined to deter people from making these dangerous and illegal crossings and I will be keeping a close eye on the Government’s plans in the coming weeks.
