Turmoil in the Commons: Rishi Sunak Faces Pivotal Night Amidst Largest Rebellion Yet on Rwanda Plan

In a significant challenge to Chancellor Rishi Sunak’s leadership, the Commons witnessed the largest rebellion of his premiership on a pivotal night for the government’s Rwanda plan. The contentious bill, aimed at overhauling the UK’s migration policy, faced vehement opposition from both within and outside the Conservative Party. Despite the rebellion, the bill is expected to pass its crucial test, with Tory MPs showing reluctance to bring down the entire legislation.

SNP’s Alison Thewliss Denounces the Rwanda Bill:

The rebellion was not without fierce criticism, as Alison Thewliss, a spokesperson for the Scottish National Party (SNP), characterized the Rwanda bill as a “tawdry pathetic mess of unworkable legislation.” Thewliss argued that the proposed legislation is illegal, incapable of addressing the migration issue, and lacks a mandate from the government. She further highlighted Rwanda’s unwillingness to sign an agreement breaching international law and accused the government of resembling a criminal gang.

Yvette Cooper Slams the Chaos:

Adding to the chorus of dissent, shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper criticized the chaotic handling of the Rwanda bill in the Commons. She labeled the recent votes as a “farce” and claimed that the prime minister, Boris Johnson, has lost control, leaving his authority in tatters. Cooper asserted that the Rwanda bill is fatally flawed and the scheme it proposes is failing. The government’s allocation of £240 million to Rwanda for the plan has raised concerns about the prudent use of taxpayers’ money.

Home Secretary James Cleverly Defends the Rwanda Bill:

As the debate on the Rwanda bill unfolded, Home Secretary James Cleverly defended the legislation, stating that it would put an end to the “merry-go-round of legal challenges.” Cleverly argued that the bill aims to prevent the misuse of asylum laws, human rights laws, and judicial reviews to impede legitimate removals. He assured the House that, if passed, the bill would be in complete compliance with international law. However, Tory MP Tobias Ellwood sought confirmation on this point, reflecting the internal divisions within the Conservative Party.

Biggest Tory Rebellion and the Road Ahead:

The rebellion reached its zenith with 65 votes for Robert Jenrick’s amendment, marking the most significant challenge faced by Rishi Sunak thus far. Despite the rebels flexing their political muscles, there is a consensus that they won’t go in for the kill, choosing symbolic wins over a complete overthrow of the bill. While several Tory rebels are expected to vote against the bill during the third reading, it appears unlikely to be sufficient to defeat it.

The dramatic events surrounding the Rwanda bill underscore the deep divisions within the Conservative Party and the challenges facing Rishi Sunak’s leadership. As the government attempts to navigate through this contentious legislation, the fallout from the largest rebellion yet may reverberate within the party for months to come. The Rwanda plan, originally designed to reshape the country’s migration policies, now stands as a symbol of internal strife and dissent within the ranks of the ruling party.

Tags: Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Tory, Concervatives

Last Updated on January 18, 2024