Thank you for contacting me about the Safety of Rwanda Bill. The Government is taking decisive action to deem Rwanda a safe country notwithstanding UK and international law, and to end the merry-go-round of illegal migration delay tactics. The Bill builds on the treaty recently signed by the Home Secretary and the Rwandan Foreign Affairs Minister, making clear in UK law that Rwanda is a safe country thereby answering all of the concerns of the Supreme Court. Rwanda currently hosts more than 135,000 people seeking safety and protection and has a track record of providing that protection and supporting people thriving in their country. The UN Refugee Agency has its own scheme for refugees in Rwanda, which is not delivered through a legally binding treaty.
I have personally visited Rwanda to see first-hand the accommodation which is to host asylum seekers whilst their claims are processed, and it is safe, clean accommodation, with food, healthcare, amenities, and recreation. People will have support and care, meeting their needs as their asylum claims are processed and considered in Rwanda, including full access to translators and legal advice.
Whilst I understand that you have concerns about the provisions contained in the Bill, I can assure you that the UK has a proud history of supporting those in need of protection and since 2015 we have welcomed 480,000 people through safe and legal routes from all over the world, as well as via country-specific routes from Syria, Hong Kong, Afghanistan and Ukraine. But while our compassion may be infinite, our capacity to help is not, and with 45,000 crossing the English Channel in small boats last year costs to the taxpayer of £6m per day to house them is simply not sustainable. It is impacting on our ability to help those genuinely in danger who might come via our safe and legal routes. Further, it is putting significant strain on public services.
The Bill and the treaty will deliver on the Prime Minister's priority to stop the boats and ensure that people know that if they come to the UK illegally, they will not be able to stay.
13/12/2023