The UK's Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, has passed the Rwanda bill, which aims to deter vulnerable migrants from making dangerous crossings and breaking the business model of criminal gangs who exploit them. The bill, which was introduced to deter illegal migrants, has been met with criticism, with shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper calling it an "extortionately expensive gimmick" and leading human rights groups describing it as a "breach of international law." The UK's Minister for Illegal Migration, Michael Tomlinson, said the bill passing was a "landmark moment" and that the deterrent effect would be felt when flights get off the ground.

A lawyer representing some asylum seekers suggested that there may be other routes to stop flights taking off, such as providing seven days' notice if they are chosen to be removed to Rwanda. However, the UK Supreme Court ruled the Rwanda scheme unlawful in November. The UK government has passed legislation to send around 52,000 asylum seekers to Rwanda, a country that has received £240m in payments from the UK government by the end of 2023.

The scheme, which would cost £50bn for 300 people, would be a "substantial deterrent" to small boats crossing the Channel. The government has created a new power to ignore the European Court of Human Rights's injunctions if a flight is ordered to stay on the runway. However, most lawyers argue that this would be a breach of international law.

The government has also proposed boosting border security, targeting criminal gangs, enforcing stronger powers and intelligence agreements, and introducing fast-track systems for new returns and enforcement units. The government has also made concessions, such as reassessing Afghan veterans' claims and ensuring they will not be deported. However, the government remains firm on its commitment to the scheme. 

Home Office minister Lord Sharpe of Epsom defended the bill, stating it complied with international law and was morally and patriotic to defend borders. Human rights groups have objected to the plan, arguing it poses a threat to the rule of law and puts torture survivors and refugees at risk. Reform UK's leader Richard Tice said the plan would not act as a deterrent and that Border Force would need to stop the boats.