In a significant setback for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Britain’s Supreme Court declared the government’s asylum scheme, which aimed to send asylum seekers to Rwanda, as unlawful. The ruling comes as a major blow to Sunak, particularly as the decision precedes an upcoming election expected next year.
Sunak, facing the fallout from the disintegration of his flagship immigration policy, announced efforts to negotiate a new treaty with Rwanda. Failing a resolution through diplomatic means, he expressed willingness to introduce new laws and reassess international treaties hindering his plans.
The controversial scheme intended to redirect tens of thousands of asylum seekers, arriving in the UK without permission, to Rwanda. The objective was to deter migrants using small boats to cross the Channel from Europe.
The Supreme Court’s unanimous decision on Wednesday rejected the notion that Rwanda could be deemed a safe third country. Critics of the policy, who deemed it unworkable and cruel, celebrated the ruling. Simultaneously, right-wing members of Sunak’s Conservative Party expressed frustration.
Sunak, aware of the discontent within his party, suggested the possibility of the UK departing from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and other treaties, as demanded by some members. In addressing parliament, he emphasized a commitment to take any necessary measures to prevent the influx of migrants.
The Rwanda asylum scheme held a central position in Sunak’s immigration policy, especially as he gears up for the upcoming election. The political significance of the court’s ruling intensified following Sunak’s dismissal of Interior Minister Suella Braverman on Monday. Braverman, known for her popularity on the right-wing of the party and responsibility for immigration matters, launched a scathing critique of Sunak on Tuesday. She accused him of breaking promises on immigration and betraying the British people.
