Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson defends his Rwanda plan, described as the "toughest immigration law ever." Topics discussed include the government's approach to immigration, the resignation of the immigration minister, Labour Party's position, net migration numbers, Boris Johnson's apology during the Covid inquiry, and the ongoing Covid inquiry and its focus on political conduct during the pandemic.
The government's plan to send migrants to Rwanda is facing political upheaval and criticism due to concerns about its effectiveness and the potential for legal challenges.
Boris Johnson's appearance at the COVID inquiry revealed his conflicting character traits, including contrition and deflection of responsibility, shedding light on his suitability for leadership and Downing Street's culture during the crisis.
Deep dives
Rwanda plan creates political fallout
The government's plan to send migrants to Rwanda has caused political upheaval. The resignation of Robert Jenrick, the immigration minister, and a hastily arranged news conference by the Prime Minister indicate the challenges facing the government's approach. Critics argue that the plan may not effectively address the issue of illegal migration, as people may still be able to take legal action against being sent to Rwanda. The urgency lies in getting people on planes before the German election, with potential legal challenges and the need to pass legislation swiftly.
Boris Johnson faces COVID inquiry
Boris Johnson's appearance at the COVID inquiry revealed his contrasting character traits. While he displayed contrition and emotion when discussing the pandemic's impact, he stopped short of a full apology. Johnson's tendency to avoid personal blame and deflect responsibility became evident during his testimony. Observers noted the conflict within him, both showing remorse and failing to fully acknowledge mistakes. The inquiry has shed light on Johnson's suitability for leadership and the culture within Downing Street during the crisis.
Labour criticizes immigration plan
Labour has seized the opportunity to attack the government on its immigration policies. The party has asserted itself confidently, focusing on the government's failure to effectively tackle illegal migration and the ongoing issue of boat arrivals. While there may be some policy differences, Labour feels they are well-positioned to challenge the government's plans. They believe net legal migration, which stands at 700,000, is a significant concern that overshadows the government's efforts to control immigration. The crucial upcoming vote will likely demonstrate Labour's opposition to the Rwanda plan.
The Covid inquiry challenges conclusions
The ongoing Covid inquiry has raised questions about the conclusiveness of certain previously held beliefs. For instance, debate continues regarding the impact of a circuit breaker lockdown and the eat out to help out scheme. The inquiry has also exposed the challenges of separating genuine mistakes made during the crisis from hindsight bias. While criticisms of the inquiry have emerged, focusing on its perceived preoccupation with politics, the inquiry is a significant endeavor that aims to provide a thorough examination of the pandemic's handling and its wider impact.
The prime minister has defended his Rwanda bill at a press conference in which he described the plan as the “toughest immigration law ever”.
But his own party is split over it.
It came the morning after the resignation of immigration minister Robert Jenrick, who said the new law wasn’t tough enough.
And former Prime Minister Boris Johnson finishes his evidence at the Covid inquiry after being asked about partygate, Eat Out to Help Out and his time in hospital.
Adam and Chris are is joined by Boris Johnson’s former advisor Will Walden, and Times radio presenter and former Labour advisor Ayesha Hazarika.
You can join our Newscast online community here: https://tinyurl.com/newscastcommunityhere
Today's Newscast was presented by Adam Fleming. It was made by Chis Gray with Gemma Roper. The senior news editors are Jonathan Aspinwall and Sam Bonham
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