Stubborn Lords vote to wreck Rishi Sunak's Rwanda flights Bill yet again as ... trends now
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Peers ignored pleas to tackle the Channel crisis last night as they inflicted yet more defeats on Rishi Sunak's Rwanda policy.
The unelected Lords were accused of 'backing the people smugglers' after imposing a series of changes on the Safety Of Rwanda Bill.
The blocking tactics came on the busiest day of the year so far on the Channel. An estimated 480 migrants reached Britain by small boat from northern France.
The life-saving measures are expected to return to the Commons on April 15, and back to the Lords the following day. It is possible the Government could attempt to force it through with repeated votes even if Lords continue to resist.
The delay will give the Government time to consider making concessions to the Lords and get the bill on the Statute Book - with removal flights expected to follow just weeks later.
The blocking tactics came on the busiest day of the year so far on the Channel. An estimated 480 migrants reached Britain by small boat from northern France (file image)
Peers ignored pleas to tackle the Channel crisis last night as they inflicted yet more defeats on Rishi Sunak's Rwanda policy (file image)
The unelected Lords were accused of 'backing the people smugglers' after imposing a series of changes on the Safety Of Rwanda Bill (pictured: Rishi Sunak)
Home Secretary James Cleverly said it was time for 'the talking to end' and implement the scheme.
'While Labour and their allies try anything to delay, disrupt or destroy that plan people are risking their lives in the hands of people who don't care if they die as long as they pay. The talking needs to end so we can get on with the job of saving lives and stopping the boats,' he said.
Former Cabinet minister Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg said: 'The peers blocking the bill are backing the people smugglers, but those who have respect for the constitution are allowing the Bill to go through.'
