Rwanda migrant plan is lawful, High Court rules

The government’s plan to deport migrants to Rwanda is lawful, the High Court has ruled.

Although judges dismissed challenges against the policy as a whole, they ruled in favour of eight asylum seekers.

Lord Justice Lewis said the home secretary had “not properly considered” the eight individual cases and that they would need to be reconsidered.

A hearing will take place in January to deal with any appeal applications.

Former Home Secretary Priti Patel announced the government’s plan to deport some people to Rwanda back in April.

The first deportation flight, which was due to take off on 14 June, was grounded following a series of objections from lawyers and charities.

Home Secretary Suella Braverman said she is committed to making the Rwanda policy work as she welcomed the High Court judgement on Monday.

She said: “We have always maintained that this policy is lawful and today the court has upheld this.

“I am committed to making this partnership work – my focus remains on moving ahead with the policy as soon as possible and we stand ready to defend against any further legal challenge.”