A controversial plan to send some asylum seekers to Rwanda from Britain faces two more challenges today ahead and the first flight could have fewer than 10 migrants on board if it does take off on Tuesday.
Home Secretary Priti Patel launched the plan to deport asylum seekers who arrived in the UK "illegally" to the East African country, which she says aims to deter people smugglers from bringing migrants into the UK on dangerous boat journeys.
The Rwanda scheme is highly contentious and has been challenged in the courts. The first flight to the Rwandan capital, Kigali, is due to take off on Tuesday, June 14. Out of 130 told on Friday that they could be on the flight, fewer than 10 could actually be on board, the BBC reports.
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A High Court judge ruled on Friday that the first flight to the east African country could go ahead on Tuesday but this is set to be challenged in the Court of Appeal.
The appeal has been brought by the Public and Commercial Services union (PCS), which represents more than 80% of Border Force staff, along with the Care4Calais and Detention Action charities.
A second case is due to be heard in the High Court on Monday after Asylum Aid, a refugee charity, applied for an urgent interim injunction to stop the Government flying migrants to Rwanda.
Home Secretary Priti Patel says the “vast majority” of those who arrive in the UK through means deemed “illegal” – such as on unauthorised boats or stowed away in lorries – will be considered for relocation. The scheme will prioritise adults, it is understood.
On Sunday, PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said the union is hopeful it can win its appeal and stop the first deportation flight.
He told Sky’s Sophy Ridge on Sunday programme: “We hope we win tomorrow in the Court of Appeal to stop the flight (on Tuesday).
“But, of course, the legality of these proposals will only be tested out at the full court hearing in July.
“We’re absolutely confident that in July, in line with what the UNHCR (UN Refugee Agency) said very graphically in court, we believe these proposals will be found to be unlawful.”
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