MPs back Rwanda bill with 320 votes

In a significant development in UK politics, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Rwanda bill has successfully passed through the House of Commons, despite initial threats of a rebellion within the Conservative Party.

The bill, aimed at preventing legal challenges to the government's plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda, was approved by a vote of 320 to 276.

Only 11 Conservative MPs, including former immigration minister Robert Jenrick and former Home Secretary Suella Braverman, voted against the bill, while others expressed their concerns but ultimately supported the legislation to avoid political disruption.

The bill now faces scrutiny in the House of Lords, where it is expected to encounter strong opposition.

The Rwanda bill is central to Sunak's strategy to deter migrants from crossing the Channel in small boats. The government hopes to initiate deportation flights to Rwanda by spring.

However, the plan has been criticised by the Labour Party as an expensive "gimmick" and by some Conservatives as potentially legally flawed.

Labour shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper criticised the policy as a "costly con," while Home Secretary James Cleverly defended it, stating it would send a clear message against illegal entry into the UK.

The bill's passage has highlighted divisions within the Conservative Party, with two deputy chairmen resigning their roles over the issue.

The House of Lords is expected to challenge the bill's compliance with international law. Crossbench peer Lord Carlile warned of the dangers of governments placing themselves above the courts.

Meanwhile, Rwanda's President Paul Kagame has stated he would consider returning funds to the UK if no asylum seekers are sent, although a Rwandan government spokesperson clarified there is no obligation to do so.