British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced the scrapping of a controversial Conservative policy to deport asylum-seekers to Rwanda on his first full day in office. In his first news conference, he stated that the Rwanda scheme was ineffective and never acted as a deterrent. The announcement was widely expected as part of his platform of change following a landslide victory for the Labour Party. Starmer acknowledged the challenges his new government faces, including rejuvenating the economy, fixing the healthcare system, and restoring trust in government.
Starmer emphasized the need for time to implement changes, recognizing that transforming a country does not happen overnight. He outlined priorities such as improving the National Health Service and addressing immigration issues, including the influx of migrants arriving in England via small boats across the English Channel.
His Cabinet has hit the ground running, with Foreign Secretary David Lammy starting an international trip to strengthen relationships with key European countries. Health Secretary Wes Streeting is set to engage in negotiations with NHS doctors to address pay disputes that have contributed to long waiting times for appointments.
Overall, Starmer’s government is focused on addressing domestic challenges and rebuilding public confidence after years of austerity and political turmoil. The decision to end the Rwanda deportation plan is seen as a significant shift in immigration policy and a signal of the government’s commitment to a more humane approach to asylum seekers.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
