British authorities have started detaining migrants in preparation for their shipment to Rwanda over the next nine to 11 weeks, the government said on Wednesday, laying the groundwork for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s flagship immigration policy.
Parliament last month passed a law paving the way for asylum seekers to be sent to Rwanda if they arrive in Britain without permission. Sunak, who is expected to call an election later this year in which illegal migration is likely to play a prominent role, wants the first flights to depart in July.
So far this year, more than 7,500 migrants have arrived in England from France in small boats. The government says the new law will deter people from making the dangerous journey across the Channel. Five people died last week trying to cross.
