On Tuesday, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak encountered a fresh setback as 68 Members of Parliament, comprising 60 Conservative MPs, expressed their support for the proposed amendments to the "Rwanda Security Bill" put forth by Conservative backbencher Sir Bill Cash.
The outcome of the voting unquestionably poses a challenge for Sunak, particularly in a year when elections are held, as it signifies a significant level of disquiet within the Conservative Party. The objective behind the amendments is to guarantee that both UK and international law cannot be exploited to hinder an individual's deportation to Rwanda. These amendments faced opposition, with a majority of 461 votes against their approval.
The uprising signifies that Sunak confronts particular challenges in effectively guiding both the Conservative Party and the nation. Notably, former Home Secretary Robert Jenrick endeavoured to modify the legislation by imposing stringent restrictions on the right of appeal for asylum seekers being relocated to Kigali. Regrettably, the House of Commons disapproved of his proposed amendments, as evidenced by the overwhelming vote of 525 to 58 against them.
Several notable Conservative backbenchers, including former Prime Minister Liz Truss, former Minister Suella Braverman, Sir Bill Cash, Sir Simon Clarke, and former leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith, among approximately 40 others, had previously pledged their support for these alterations.
The Prime Minister was subjected to criticism by the opposition for his perceived lack of leadership skills, with the resignations being cited as evidence that even senior Conservatives believe the Conservative Party has failed. Pat McFadden, the Labour Party's National Campaign Coordinator, asserted that Rishi Sunak is insufficiently strong to lead his party and the country. The Liberal Democrats also voiced their opinion that Sunak had once again faced embarrassment due to actions taken by his own MPs. Alastair Carmichael, the Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Home Affairs, questioned how the Prime Minister could expect to govern the country if he could not settle disputes within his own party.
Vice Chairs Lee Anderson and Brendan Clarke-Smith have tendered their resignations from their positions, providing their support for two amendments put forth by right-wing Members of Parliament with the intention of safeguarding the government's key housing policy from potential legal disputes. In support of the proposals made by Conservative backbenchers, Jane Stevenson, Parliamentary Private Secretary at the Department for Business and Trade, has also stepped down from her position. Mr. Anderson and Mr. Clarke-Smith have voiced their backing for the amendments introduced by Jenrick and Sir Bill Cash. However, they have emphasized that their intent is not to oppose the bill itself but rather to reinforce the legislation.
The Prime Minister accepted their resignations and thanked them for their dedication and hard work for the Conservative Party. A source stated that this legislation is the strictest law formulated by Parliament to tackle illegal immigration, aiming to make it clear that those who arrive illegally in the UK will not be able to stay. The government plans to send immigrants crossing the English Channel to Rwanda instead of allowing them to seek asylum in the UK.
The objective of the legislation and treaty is to guarantee that the government's plans acquire legal validity, consequent to the Supreme Court's ruling last year. Certain senior individuals have issued a warning that they would cast their vote against the bill unless necessary amendments are introduced during a critical phase of the bill's third reading in the House of Commons. The bill's discussion is slated for Wednesday.
This event shed light on the divisions within the British government pertaining to immigration. While disagreements persist within the Conservative Party, the government aims to devise a viable strategy to combat the influx of illegal immigrants. Irrespective of the ultimate resolution, this matter will persistently spark controversy and engender deliberation within the realm of British politics.