What's happened
The UK government's controversial plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda has faced criticism, with MP Natalie Elphicke defecting from the Conservatives to Labour. The move comes after parliament passed legislation to send illegal arrivals to Rwanda, following the tragic deaths of migrants attempting to cross the Channel.
Why it matters
The UK's decision to send asylum seekers to Rwanda has sparked debate and criticism, with concerns over the effectiveness and ethics of the plan. The defection of MP Natalie Elphicke highlights the growing opposition within the government's own ranks, signaling potential challenges for Rishi Sunak's administration.
What the papers say
The Scotsman criticizes Rishi Sunak's plan, calling it an 'expensive waste of taxpayers’ money' and highlighting concerns over its effectiveness. On the other hand, the New Statesman delves into the tragic deaths of migrants in the Channel and the controversial legislation passed by parliament. The Guardian reviews a radio documentary, 'To Catch a Scorpion,' shedding light on the illegal migration industry and the hunt for a notorious people-smuggler.
How we got here
The UK government's plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda follows a series of tragic incidents, including the deaths of migrants attempting to cross the Channel. The legislation passed by parliament aims to deter illegal arrivals by processing them in Rwanda. The defection of MP Natalie Elphicke underscores the growing discontent within political circles over the handling of asylum seekers.
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