I am sure that many people were pleased to see the Prime Minister set out a plan last week to stop the illegal Channel crossings (see previous post). It is only fair that if you enter the UK illegally, you should not be able to remain here but should be detained and swiftly returned, either to your home country or to a safe country where your claim for asylum will be considered.
It is therefore very welcome that earlier today, the High Court ruled the Government’s policy to relocate illegal immigrants to Rwanda is lawful. The Rwanda policy sought to send people who arrived in the UK to Rwanda on a one-way ticket, to claim asylum there. It would deter people arriving in the UK through illegal, dangerous or unnecessary methods, such as on small boats which cross the English Channel. The policy was held up by lawyers but now the High Court has ruled it is lawful.
This judgement and partnership with Rwanda is what the overwhelming majority of the British people want to happen. The sooner it is up and running, the sooner we will break the business model of the evil gangs and bring an end to the illegal, unnecessary and unsafe channel crossings.
I was glad that the Home Secretary agreed with me that it is not just about stopping the supply from the gangs but also stopping the demand of people wanting to make those journeys in the first place. The way we will achieve that is by making clear that those who make the journey by boat will not be able to stay in the country.