The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, expressed criticism towards the Rwanda Bill, an initiative led by the British government to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda. The bill has encountered opposition from the House of Lords, delaying its progression. Health Minister Dame Andrea Leadsom confirmed the government’s intention to proceed with the bill, anticipating deportation flights could start post-Easter recess, likely around May or June.

Under the proposed legislation, Rwanda is classified as a safe country for deportations, and it would allow ministers to override court injunctions. Welby, speaking on Times Radio, emphasized the biblical principle of hospitality and compassion towards refugees. Despite resistance, the bill is expected to pass, albeit with potential for further delays due to continued amendments by the Lords.

Rishi Sunak, the British Prime Minister, has focused on implementing the Rwanda policy as part of the government’s approach to asylum seekers. The policy has been criticized as both absurd and costly. Despite amendments by the Lords aimed at ensuring the policy’s legal compliance and protecting vulnerable groups, the Commons, supported by Sunak, has rejected these changes. Public support for the policy is low, with only 24% of Britons in favour, and the National Audit Office has highlighted its high costs.

The disagreement between the House of Commons and the House of Lords over the Rwanda Bill has led to criticisms of the Lords being ‘out of touch’ and sparked discussions on the relevance and role of the unelected chamber in modern UK politics. The conflict over the bill underscores the ongoing debates regarding asylum and immigration policy in the UK, the decision-making process of the government, and the leadership of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.