Sunak Confirms Rwanda Flights Will Not Resume Before July Election
During an interview on Thursday, Mr. Sunak mentioned that the flights to Rwanda will not be taking off until after the general election.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stated that the planned flights to Rwanda for relocating illegal migrants from the UK will not commence before the general election.
Following the announcement of the election date on Wednesday, Mr. Sunak began his campaign tour, discussing the government’s key policies.
One of these policies involves preventing illegal migrants from crossing the English Channel on small boats, which led to the Rwanda bill being swiftly passed in Parliament and becoming law in April.
The government subsequently revealed its intention to launch migrant relocation flights in July.
“If I’m elected, we will proceed with the flights. The groundwork has already been laid,” Mr. Sunak affirmed.
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The government views the Rwanda plan as a deterrent to prevent small boat crossings, but the opposition is not convinced of its effectiveness.
Labour Party Leader Sir Keir Starmer has expressed his intention to replace the Rwanda policy with a new multi-agency Border Security Command if he assumes power, aiming to combat people smuggling gangs.
Responding to Mr. Sunak’s remarks on the Rwanda flights timing, Sir Keir remarked, “I don’t think he ever believed in that plan’s success, hence the early election call to avoid testing it before the election.”
During his campaign tour on Thursday, the Labour leader emphasized the need to address the border control issues and tackle small boat arrivals, emphasizing that no one should be making such dangerous journeys.
Summer Election
Recently, the Home Office stressed the urgency of launching the Rwanda flights to curb the continued Channel crossings by a significant number of people.
In light of Mr. Sunak’s statements, the migrant relocation plan might not materialize if the Tories fail to secure a victory on July 4.
The summer election coincides with the peak period for small boat crossings to the UK. Previous summer months have seen a rise in migrants attempting to reach Britain via small boat journeys across the Channel.
An increased influx of small boats would pose challenges for the Conservatives who have prioritized tackling illegal immigration in the lead-up to the election.
In another interview, Mr. Sunak clarified that the decision to call for a summer election was not based on economic forecasts of a summer inflation spike.
Speaking on BBC “Breakfast,” the prime minister emphasized the progress made in stabilizing the economy despite acknowledging the ongoing challenges faced by families.
The Conservatives have managed to lower inflation from a historic high when Mr. Sunak assumed office as prime minister, with April data showing a significant drop in inflation levels.
While inflation has decreased, the impact on interest rates and financial relief for families may take time to materialize.
Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves pledged to focus on delivering economic stability if she assumes the role of chancellor.
Additionally, leaders of various political parties have launched election campaigns and planned visits to constituencies across the country.
The Electoral Commission has urged all campaigners to engage respectfully and constructively with differing viewpoints.
PA Media contributed to this report.
