The UK government has revealed plans for the first deportation flights to Rwanda, sparking a legal challenge from civil servants.
High Court Judge Martin Chamberlain disclosed the expected timeframe as July 1st to 15th, coinciding with Rwanda’s upcoming elections.
This timeline comes despite a previous Supreme Court ruling deeming the policy unlawful due to safety concerns in Rwanda.
The government responded with the “Safety of Rwanda” law, declaring Rwanda safe and allowing ministers to bypass certain human rights laws in deportation decisions.
The FDA union, representing civil servants, is challenging the new law, arguing it conflicts with the Civil Service Code requiring them to uphold the rule of law.
This potential conflict arises as the new law allows ignoring injunctions from the European Court of Human Rights.
“Civil servants should not be forced to choose between following orders and upholding the law,” stated FDA general secretary Dave Penman.
The union seeks clarity on the law’s compliance with the code before the first flights take off.
Judge Chamberlain scheduled a one-day hearing in early June to address the FDA’s concerns.
He acknowledged the potential impact on civil servants caught between following ministerial directives and legal obligations.
The government maintains its Rwanda policy aims to deter migrants from attempting dangerous Channel crossings.
They’ve already begun detaining asylum seekers for potential deportation, sparking protests.
This news highlights the ongoing controversy surrounding the UK’s Rwanda deportation policy. Legal challenges and ethical concerns remain, while the government pushes forward with its controversial solution to irregular migration.
