Tory Deputy Chairmen Resign, Posing Crucial Rwandan Vote Challenge for Rishi Sunak

Rishi Sunak is facing a significant vote on his Rwanda bill as multiple Conservative Party members have resigned in order to rebel against the legislation. Lee Anderson, Brendan Clarke-Smith, and Jane Stevenson stepped down to support changes they believe will strengthen the bill. Around 60 Tory MPs have also backed rebel amendments, dealing a blow to the Prime Minister's authority. Despite this setback, No 10 remains confident that the bill will pass eventually, but they are believed to be preparing to make concessions. The bill aims to deter Channel crossings and revive the plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda. If approximately 30 Tory MPs join opposition parties in voting against the bill at its final Commons hurdle, it could be defeated. Some Conservative MPs, including Robert Jenrick and Suella Braverman, have already stated they are prepared to vote against the bill if it is not improved. However, it remains uncertain how many others will join them. Amendments to the bill were defeated on Tuesday, but they received significant support from senior Tories, including Suella Braverman and Liz Truss. Rishi Sunak has resisted bowing to the demands of his critics within the party so far, as giving in to them could risk losing support from more centrist MPs. In an attempt to appease some of these critics, the government is reportedly considering changing official guidelines to introduce a presumption that European Court of Human Rights rulings blocking deportations can be ignored. Even if the government secures a victory, it will come at a political cost as the divisions within the Conservative Party are exposed. The Prime Minister has made the Rwanda policy a central part of his pledge to stop small boats crossing the Channel. Miriam Cates, one of those who voted for the amendments, stated that she would potentially be prepared to vote against the entire bill. However, she noted that there are more votes on amendments the following day and a decision has not been made yet. If the bill is approved by MPs, it will still face opposition in the House of Lords. On Tuesday evening, Rishi Sunak suffered his largest rebellion since becoming Prime Minister as 60 Conservatives defied the government to support changes to the bill proposed by right-wing MPs. Anderson, Clarke-Smith, and Stevenson confirmed their resignations after voting for the rebel amendments. They clarified that they were not against the bill but wanted to ensure its effectiveness. Labour criticized Sunak, stating that the resignations demonstrate his inability to lead his party and the country. Pat McFadden, the party's national campaign coordinator, criticized the Conservatives for their failed Rwanda policy and the high cost to taxpayers.