Illegal Migration Bill 2023-07-06
2023-07-06
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The Illegal Migration Bill is under scrutiny for its compatibility with the European Convention on Human Rights. The bill faces challenges from various quarters, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.
What discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on the compatibility of the Illegal Migration Bill with the European convention on human rights?
As the hon. Gentleman knows, I am bound by the Law Officers' convention not only to not talk about advice that I give to Cabinet colleagues, but to not even reveal whether such advice has been given.
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Assessment & feedback
Bound By The Law Officers' Convention
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The Court of Appeal found certain aspects of the Illegal Migration Bill unlawful, based in part on evidence provided by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. The recommendations included cooperation with EU neighbors and fair asylum procedures.
Will the Attorney General ensure that the Cabinet listens and enacts those recommendations?
The Government are disappointed by the recent outcome of the case before the Court of Appeal and will seek permission to appeal to the Supreme Court. The Court of Appeal did say that the policy of removal to a safe third country could be compatible, and it did not disturb the finding of the High Court that Rwanda is safe, though the majority was concerned about the possibility of onward removal from Rwanda.
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Assessment & feedback
ensuring cabinet compliance with UNHCR recommendations
Disappointed By The Outcome
Will Seek Permission To Appeal
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The Attorney General is expected to uphold the rule of law. Previous legislation, such as the Bill of Rights, has been criticized for undermining European convention rights.
Will she now stand up to other of her Cabinet colleagues who repeatedly transgress international law?
I absolutely can and do stand up for the rule of law. The Government are committed to the rule of law domestically and committed to maintaining and upholding our obligations under international law. That is made quite clear to all Ministers.
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Assessment & feedback
confronting cabinet colleagues on specific transgressions
Stand Up For The Rule Of Law
Commitment To Maintaining And Upholding Obligations
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The Rwanda asylum plan has been declared incompatible with several international conventions, including those protecting against torture and inhumane treatment. The Supreme Court is expected to rule on its legality.
How much taxpayers' money does the Attorney General estimate the Government will spend appealing this illegal plan?
I absolutely do not accept the premise of the hon. Lady's question. The divisional court was a strong win for the Government. At the Court of Appeal, the majority found against us, but we also had a strong judgment from the Lord Chief Justice. We believe that the assurances we have had from Rwanda regarding asylum protections there are robust, and we intend to make those arguments strongly in the Supreme Court.
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Assessment & feedback
providing an estimate of appeal costs
Do Not Accept The Premise
Strong Judgment From The Lord Chief Justice
Response accuracy