Commons Sense

House of Commons · Bill Debate

The Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill - Clause 1 - Introduction, Lords amendment 3J

22 April 2024 · 6 other contributors

Opened by Michael Tomlinson Con Mid Dorset and North Poole

Asylum & Refugees

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Michael Tomlinson raised concerns about the safety of rwanda (asylum and immigration) bill - clause 1 - introduction, lords amendment 3j in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • Moves to disagree with Lords amendment 3J
  • Amendment is similar to previously rejected ones
  • Government reiterates position on treaty ratification and implementation progress

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Michael Tomlinson Con Mid Dorset and North Poole

Moves to disagree with Lords amendment 3J. States that the amendment is almost identical to previously rejected amendments. Reiterates government position on ratifying treaty and implementation progress in Rwanda. Emphasises that implementation continues at pace, with Rwandan legislation passed for new asylum system.

Other contributors (6)
  • Stephen Kinnock Lab Aberavon Maesteg

    Thanks Lord Browne for securing a concession on Afghan deportations. Criticises government's inconsistent approach to Afghans, noting cancellation of flights from Pakistan. Raises concerns over Rwandan safety and permanency, citing historical incidents like 11 refugees shot by police six years ago.

  • Bob Seely

    Intervenes to note that Rwanda is safe according to the UN and other organisations. Points out that 30,000 refugees have been rehoused in Rwanda safely.

  • Barry Gardiner Lab Brent West

    Intervenes to confirm UK has accepted a refugee from Rwanda within past 12 months, challenging Seely's point.

  • Robert Buckland

    Supports Lords amendments in principle for parliamentary mechanisms to handle future changes. However, suggests unelected House should cede authority to elected House at this stage.

  • Alison Thewliss SNP Glasgow Central

    Opposes the amendment, arguing that it does not provide sufficient scrutiny on Rwanda's safety and implementation of asylum processes. Cites concerns about Afghan refugees and interpreters being left behind without proper protection or legal routes to safety.

  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    Intervenes to raise the case of a constituent who worked with an Afghan soldier in Afghanistan. The Afghan is now facing deportation from Pakistan back to Afghanistan, highlighting that these individuals are not covered by the legislation and require urgent attention.

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