Mps Vote Down Controversial Rwanda Bill Amendments
In a major parliamentary vote, MPs rejected proposed amendments to the divisive Rwanda bill on Tuesday evening. The bill, which gives the government power to send some asylum seekers to Rwanda to have their claims processed, has met with widespread criticism from opposition parties and refugee advocates.
Several amendments had put forward seeking to alter key aspects of the controversial Rwanda bill. One would have required parliamentary approval of any country the UK seeks to deport asylum seekers to in future. Others aimed to exempt unaccompanied children and those fleeing the war in Ukraine from being sent overseas. However, none of the amendments were successful in gaining a majority.
What’s Next For The Rwanda Plan?
With the amendments defeated, the contentious Rwanda bill looks set to complete its passage through Parliament and become law in its current form. The government remains committed to implementing the scheme, which will see some asylum applicants sent over 6,000 miles to Rwanda to apply for refugee status. Critics argue this outsourcing of Britain’s asylum system is unethical and inhumane.
Further legal challenges are expect in attempts to halt the Rwanda bill policy from enacted. Charities and human rights groups are exploring options to mount fresh court cases arguing the plan breaches various laws. However, the government maintains the scheme is need to curb dangerous Channel crossings and dismantle people smuggling networks.
