Migrant relocation program initiates despite criticism
The UK has taken a significant step by sending its first failed asylum seeker to Rwanda under a newly introduced voluntary removal program. This program, announced just a month ago, offers migrants who have been unsuccessful in their asylum claims up to £3,000 to relocate to Rwanda. It marks the first return of a failed asylum seeker under this scheme.
The unnamed individual departed from the UK on a commercial flight bound for Rwanda on Monday, as reported by The Sun. Though officials provided no further details, they confirmed that the asylum seeker had exhausted all legal avenues to remain in the UK.
Rwanda’s government confirmed the arrival of the failed asylum seeker on Tuesday, following the flight from London.
The scheme, introduced in March, is seen as a variant of an existing voluntary returns program for failed asylum seekers. It’s also open to other individuals with no right to stay in the UK, including foreign criminals.
Criticism of the move came swiftly, with Labour accusing the government of attempting to push through the relocation before Thursday’s local elections in England. Shadow foreign secretary Yvette Cooper described it as a “desperate” pre-election gimmick and questioned the taxpayer expense involved.
While Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch defended the scheme, emphasizing Rwanda’s safety, others raised concerns about its effectiveness. Jacqueline McKenzie, head of immigration at Leigh Day solicitors, expressed surprise that more individuals hadn’t taken up the offer, given the recent increase in those offered the relocation package, including vulnerable individuals.
The forced returns scheme, aimed at deterring future migrants from crossing the English Channel in small boats, has faced legal challenges but is set to begin this summer. Rwanda has agreed to accept an initial cohort of 5,700 asylum seekers under this scheme.
Downing Street expressed confidence in locating asylum seekers subject to forced returns, though concerns remain about some potentially absconding before detention.
