I am well aware how important the issue of stopping the boats and controlling our borders is to the people of Wrexham. My position on illegal migration is clear: illegal entry to the UK must be blocked, the business model of people-smuggling networks must be broken and the removal of those with no right to be here must be accelerated.
I am pleased the Prime Minister has acknowledged that the current situation at our borders is unacceptable and unsustainable. As such, the Government has introduced a number of measures to address illegal migration. This is in stark contrast to Labour and other opposition parties, who have no plan and are playing politics with this incredibly important issue.
Whilst the Rwanda Bill has generated a large amount of publicity, it is only one of a number of measures the Government is taking to tackle illegal migration. The Bill was voted on in the House of Commons last night and contains the toughest illegal migration laws to date. It is also within the framework of international law, but crucially, reaffirms UK Parliament’s sovereignty.
Being able to remove those who have come to the UK illegally is an essential deterrent and part of the Government’s plan to stop the boats. Indeed, countries across Europe are following the United Kingdom’s lead in exploring third country models for illegal immigration – including Austria, Germany, Denmark, and Italy.
The Bill also 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 has a track record of providing protection and supporting people in their country. The UN Refugee Agency has its own scheme for refugees in Rwanda.
Whilst the Rwanda Bill is not perfect, it is a step in the right direction and I hope the Government capitalises on any possible opportunities to amend and strengthen this piece of legislation as it moves through Parliament in the New Year.
I am following this issue closely and will support any measures that ensure the UK has a comprehensive, robust and workable plan to tackle illegal migration. Ultimately, I will not be satisfied until we retain control of our borders and stop the boats.