After weeks of intense parliamentary wrangling, Members of Parliament (MPs) and peers are gearing up for a final showdown over the contentious Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill. The bill, which has faced numerous amendments and delays, aims to address the government’s commitment to “stop the boats” by ensuring the safety of asylum seekers.
The Stakes
The government has made it clear that it will keep Parliament in session late into the night if necessary to secure the passage of the Rwanda Bill. Downing Street remains steadfast, refusing to make concessions that could jeopardise the bill’s progress. The urgency stems from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s promise to tackle the asylum seeker crisis head-on.
Parliamentary Ping-Pong
Peers in the House of Lords have repeatedly modified the legislation, leading to prolonged debates over the “emergency legislation.” These amendments have stretched the process over more than four months, causing delays in flights transporting asylum seekers to Rwanda. The tension between MPs and peers has escalated, with both sides digging in their heels.
The Bill’s Purpose
The Rwanda Bill aims to address objections raised by the Supreme Court. By designating Rwanda as a safe country for asylum seekers, the bill seeks to override any emergency injunctions issued by the European Court of Human Rights. However, this legal manoeuvre has sparked heated debates within the halls of Parliament.
Rishi Sunak’s Ultimatum
Rishi Sunak has run out of patience. In a stern warning, he declared, “No more prevarication, no more delay. We will sit there and vote until it’s done.” His resolve underscores the government’s determination to push the bill through.
Recent Developments
Last week, peers in the House of Lords introduced further amendments to the bill. Notably, they included an exemption for Afghan nationals who assisted British troops and insisted that Rwanda’s safety status be independently verified. These changes have set the stage for a critical vote in the House of Commons.
The Showdown
On Monday, MPs are expected to reject the Lords’ amendments and send the bill back for further scrutiny. If peers persist in their demands, the bill will engage in a parliamentary “ping-pong” process—shuttling between the two chambers—potentially extending well beyond the usual 10 pm finish time.
The fate of the Rwanda Bill hangs in the balance, and the eyes of the nation are on Westminster. As the clock ticks, MPs and peers prepare for a battle that could shape the future of asylum policy in the United Kingdom.
