UK Prime Minister Vows to ‘Ignore’ International Law by Deporting Illegal Immigrants
LONDON – U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s controversial act to deport illegal immigrants to Rwanda has successfully passed the House of Commons despite strong opposition. The proposed legislation, known as the Safety of Rwanda bill, is now awaiting approval from the House of Lords before it can be enacted.
The primary objective of the bill is to deter and prevent unlawful migration, particularly by dangerous and unauthorized routes. It aims to achieve this by enabling the deportation of individuals to the Republic of Rwanda. If the bill becomes law, the U.K. would have the authority to request Rwanda to make the removed immigrant available for return to Britain. Additionally, the U.K. would be the only country allowed to relocate the migrant upon their arrival in Rwanda.
One key provision of the bill requires the U.K. to treat the deported individuals equally, regardless of any status bestowed upon them by Rwanda. Moreover, the courts would be prohibited from considering any claims suggesting that Rwanda is an unsafe destination or that immigrants would face unfair treatment in the country. A tribunal would only be able to intervene and delay the removal if there is a real, imminent, and foreseeable risk of serious and irreversible harm to the individual.
The controversial aspect of the bill lies in its disapplication of certain sections of the 1998 Human Rights Act, which upholds rights and freedoms guaranteed under the European Convention of Human Rights. While England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland are subject to this statute, the proposed legislation would override these protections.
Prime Minister Sunak has made it clear that he is willing to ignore international law in order to enforce the bill. He emphasized that decisions regarding deportation will rest solely with the government and rejected any possibility of foreign courts obstructing the process.
The prime minister specifically addressed concerns about the European Court of Human Rights’ Rule 39 provision, which allows for temporary emergency injunctions. He reassured the public that the provision would not infringe on the legislation and that domestic courts should respect the government’s decision. Sunak emphasized his dedication to using all available powers provided by the bill to uphold its enforcement.
Sunak also highlighted the contrast between opposition to the law and the desires of the British citizens. He urged the House of Lords, the appointed chamber of Parliament, to support the will of the people and ensure the bill’s passage.
The Safety of Rwanda bill has stirred heated debates and sparked concerns among human rights activists and opposition members alike. Critics argue that the proposed legislation raises various ethical and legal issues, particularly regarding human rights protections and international obligations.
The fate of the bill now rests with the House of Lords, where it will face further scrutiny and potential amendments before it reaches King Charles III’s desk for royal assent.
