header-logo header-logo

Rwanda & constitutional law

Long after it is repealed, the Safety of Rwanda Act will illustrate the fragility & vulnerability of fundamental constitutional principles, writes Graham Zellick KC

We read frequently of the concern of presidents and prime ministers, especially as their political lives are drawing to a close, over their legacy, the enduring contributions for which they will be remembered by posterity. I shall leave it for the political commentators and constitutional historians to reflect on Rishi Sunak’s legacy, but I confidently predict that his name will forever be associated with the Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Act 2024, even long after it has been repealed (and, with a general election scheduled for 4 July, it is highly likely to be repealed by an incoming Labour government before the first flight has taken off).

This is not because of his efforts—heroic or desperate, depending on your point of view—to see his policy of removing illegal migrants and asylum seekers to Rwanda (to ‘stop the boats’, in his

If you are not a subscriber, subscribe now to read this content
If you are already a subscriber sign in
...or Register for two weeks' free access to subscriber content

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Katten Muchin Rosenman—Charlotte Hill

Katten Muchin Rosenman—Charlotte Hill

Katten strengthens financial markets and funds group in London

Hugh James—Keith Cundall & Lee Hart

Hugh James—Keith Cundall & Lee Hart

Hugh James expands national Serious Injury team with two new Partners

HFW—Rémi Ducloyer

HFW—Rémi Ducloyer

HFW continues Paris office growth with public law Partner hire

NEWS
The Court of Appeal's decision in Mazur v Charles Russell Speechlys LLP has lifted months of uncertainty for Chartered Legal Executives while prompting a rethink of regulation and supervision
The assisted dying debate returns to Westminster as Lauren Edwards MP reintroduces legislation that stalled in the House of Lords last session despite clearing the Commons
A little-noticed provision of the Crime and Policing Act 2026 has fundamentally expanded corporate criminal liability
Artificial intelligence is transforming legal practice, but careless reliance on it is creating growing professional risks
The law offers cohabiting couples surprisingly greater protection after one partner dies than when they separate during life
back-to-top-scroll