UK Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, refutes any claims of being skeptical about the Rwanda plan

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has denied having reservations about the government's policy towards Rwanda during his time as chancellor. BBC documents suggest that in March 2022, Sunak was concerned about the costs of sending migrants to Rwanda and was unsure if the plan would effectively deter people from attempting to cross the English Channel. Sunak explained that as chancellor, he carefully examined all proposals but this did not mean he opposed the Rwanda policy, pointing out that he had provided funding for it. The scheme involved sending some migrants to Rwanda for processing and potential resettlement in an effort to discourage them from attempting to reach the UK in small boats. The plan was initially announced in April 2022 when Boris Johnson was prime minister but has faced legal challenges, with the Supreme Court deeming it unlawful last year. Documents indicate a disagreement between Number 10 and 11 Downing Street regarding the scheme's effectiveness, with Sunak expressing doubts about its deterrent capability. The papers also reveal that Number 10 suggested appealing to Sunak's popularity with the public to encourage his support for the migration system changes, including the Rwanda plan. The opposition Labour Party's shadow home secretary, Yvette Cooper, criticized the scheme, calling it a con and highlighting Sunak's resistance as chancellor. Sunak defended his actions, stating that thorough questioning of proposals did not imply a lack of belief in the scheme's principle of deterrence. As prime minister, he is working to pass legislation that establishes Rwanda as a safe country under UK law, addressing concerns raised by the Supreme Court. Sunak has faced criticism from within his party, with some arguing that the bill would violate international law while others believe it does not go far enough. Former immigration minister Robert Jenrick resigned, describing the legislation as hopeful but lacking practical experience, while former home secretary Suella Braverman, whom Sunak dismissed, said the bill was destined to fail. The bill has passed its first stage in the House of Commons with a comfortable majority, but Sunak will face challenges in getting it through Parliament when it reconvenes in the coming weeks.