Rwanda deportations to commence in 10 to 12 weeks, says UK prime minister

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Monday said his government is pressing ahead with plans to deport individuals to Rwanda, with the first flights expected to depart in 10 to 12 weeks.

"This is one of the most complex operational endeavors the Home Office has carried out. But we are ready, plans are in place. And these flights will go ... no foreign court will stop us from getting flights off to Rwanda," Sunak said during his live address regarding the migration challenges.

Pointing out concerns regarding human rights implications, Sunak stated that while he believes implementation can occur within the framework of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), he expressed readiness to bypass ECHR injunctions if deemed necessary, prioritizing national security.

The chancellor outlined preparations undertaken by the government, including the provision of additional detention spaces, recruitment of dedicated case workers, and the allocation of courtrooms and judges for processing deportation cases.

Moreover, Sunak highlighted amendments to ECHR rules, making it more challenging for claimants to obtain injunctions against deportation flights. The Rwanda bill empowers ministers to disregard such injunctions, further facilitating the deportation process.

Logistical arrangements are also well underway, with an airfield on standby and commercial charter planes secured for specific departure slots, he said.

Additionally, 500 personnel have been trained to escort individuals on these flights, with further training planned for an additional 300 personnel, he added.

Anticipating a phased approach, Sunak projected the commencement of deportation flights in July, extending throughout the summer and beyond. He underscored the government's commitment to continued deportation efforts until migration via this route ceases.

Although his flagship Rwanda plan suffered a series of legal challenges, Sunak seeks to relocate asylum seekers who arrive in the UK via small boats each year to the East African country.

The Rwanda plan had been one of the most controversial plans of the government's migration policy as it sparked international criticism and mass protests across the UK.

In January last year, Sunak said that tackling small boat crossings by irregular migrants across the English Channel was among five priorities of his government as more than 45,000 migrants arrived in the UK that way in 2022.