For the past two years, Britain has been striving to deport individuals arriving in the hopes of curbing migrant flows, citing risks to lives and criminal enrichment from smuggling networks. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reiterated his commitment to deport asylum seekers back to Rwanda following the passage of the contentious Safety of Rwanda Bill by the country’s parliament. The bill aims to dissuade migrants from undertaking perilous journeys across the English Channel in small boats to Britain.

Embracing the bill, Sunak declared that “nothing will stand in our way” of initiating flights to Rwanda. Describing the bill’s passage as a “landmark” moment, he emphasized its significance in reshaping global migration policies. The surge of migrants, many escaping conflict and poverty in various regions, has spurred the British government to pursue deportation measures.

Highlighting the risks to lives and the empowerment of criminal networks involved in smuggling, officials stress the urgency of action to stem arrivals.

“Our focus is to launch flights, and I am determined that nothing will impede our efforts in doing so and in saving lives,” Rishi Sunak said.

Sunak announced that the first flights would depart in 10 to 12 weeks, with preparations including standby airfields, flight slots booked, 500 staff trained to escort migrants, and reserved court facilities to process appeals.

“No ifs, no buts. No foreign court can impede us. Illegal migrants will be deported from the UK. The runway is ready, aircraft are prepared, and 500 personnel are trained and prepared to facilitate their departure,” Sunak asserted.