Suella Braverman's full-scale attack on Rishi Sunak poses a serious threat, to his leadership. The government finds itself in a precarious position following the Supreme Court's ruling that its Rwanda policy is unlawful. #rwanda #refugees

Lord Reed, in presenting the Court's judgment opened with the important statement of what the Rwanda policy is and what the Supreme Court's job is:

• "It is important at the outset to understand what that policy is. It is not, as is sometimes thought, a policy of sending asylum seekers overseas whilst their claims for asylum in the UK are processed by the UK authorities. The Home Secretary's policy is that people claiming asylum in the UK will not have their claims decided by the UK authorities. Instead, they will be sent to Rwanda where they can claim asylum in Rwanda. Their claims will be decided there, by the Rwandan authorities. If their claims are successful, they will be granted asylum in Rwanda. If their claims are unsuccessful Rwanda is entitled to expel them from its territory.

• In this appeal the Supreme Court is required to decide whether that policy is lawful. That is a legal question which the court has to decide on the basis of evidence and established legal principles. The court is not concerned with the political debate about the policy and nothing in its judgment should be regarded as supporting or opposing any political view of the issues."

The government of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak finds itself in a precarious position following the Supreme Court's ruling that its Rwanda policy is unlawful. To survive this political storm, the government will need to carefully navigate a multifaceted strategy that addresses both the legal and political implications of the decision.

Legal Response:

Accept the Court's Ruling: The government must first and foremost accept the Supreme Court's ruling and acknowledge the legal implications of the decision. This demonstrates respect for the rule of law and sets the stage for meaningful engagement with the court and other stakeholders.

Review Rwanda Agreement: The government should thoroughly review the Rwanda agreement to identify any potential areas of contention or inconsistencies with international law. This review may reveal areas for renegotiation or modification to ensure compliance with legal standards.

Explore Alternative Solutions: While the Rwanda policy has been deemed unlawful, the government's desire to address illegal immigration remains valid. Exploring alternative solutions, such as expanding resettlement programs or increasing support for migrants in their home countries, could provide viable options.

Political Response:

Address Opposition Concerns: The government should engage in open and transparent dialogue with opposition parties and concerned groups to address their concerns about the Rwanda policy and potential alternatives. This dialogue could foster understanding and potentially lead to consensus-building.

Acknowledge Public Opinion: The government should acknowledge public sentiment regarding the Rwanda policy and its implications. This could involve conducting public opinion polls or engaging in public consultations to gauge the public's views.

Demonstrate Commitment to Fairness: The government should emphasize its commitment to upholding fair and humane immigration policies. This could involve highlighting existing initiatives to support asylum seekers and refugees, as well as efforts to address the root causes of migration.

Long-Term Strategy:

Address Underlying Causes: The government should address the underlying causes of illegal immigration, such as poverty, conflict, and human rights abuses. This could involve investing in development programs, promoting conflict resolution, and supporting human rights advocacy.

Strengthen Border Security: While addressing the root causes of immigration takes time, the government can also strengthen border security measures to deter illegal entry. This could involve deploying more border agents, investing in surveillance technologies, and collaborating with neighboring countries.

Promote Legal Pathways to Migration: The government should expand legal pathways for migration to provide safe and orderly alternatives for those seeking to enter the country. This could involve increasing visa quotas for skilled workers and family reunification, and streamlining refugee resettlement procedures.

By implementing a multifaceted strategy that addresses both the legal and political implications of the Supreme Court's ruling, the government can navigate this challenging situation and emerge with a stronger and more sustainable approach to immigration policy.

Suella Braverman's attack on Rishi Sunak:

Suella Braverman's full-scale attack on Rishi Sunak, backed by right-wing factions within the Conservative Party, poses a significant threat to Sunak's leadership. Braverman's public criticism and accusations of betrayal have undermined Sunak's authority and emboldened his detractors. This internal conflict could lead to a leadership challenge or further weaken Sunak's position, making it difficult for him to govern effectively.

Factors Contributing to the Threat:

1. Braverman's Appeal to Right-Wing Base: Suella Braverman's staunchly right-wing views resonate with a significant portion of the Conservative Party's membership and electorate. Her attacks on Sunak align with their concerns over issues like immigration, culture wars, and economic policy.

2. Right-Wing Faction's Influence: The right-wing faction within the Conservative Party has historically been vocal and influential, often holding sway over party leadership contests and policy decisions. Braverman's criticism could galvanize this faction and increase pressure on Sunak.

3. Sunak's Recent Struggles: Sunak's leadership has been tested by a series of challenges, including rising inflation, public discontent with government policies, and internal divisions within the Conservative Party. Braverman's attack could capitalize on these weaknesses and further erode Sunak's standing.

Possible Outcomes of the Conflict:

1. Leadership Challenge: If Braverman and her supporters continue their attacks and gain momentum, it could lead to a formal leadership challenge within the Conservative Party. Sunak would have to defend his record and convince the party's membership to retain his position.

2. Sunak's Weakened Position: Even if Sunak avoids a formal challenge, Braverman's attacks could significantly weaken his authority and ability to govern effectively. He may struggle to pass legislation, implement policies, and maintain unity within the party.

3. Sunak's Resignation: In the most extreme scenario, the pressure from Braverman and the right-wing faction could become so intense that Sunak chooses to resign. This would plunge the Conservative Party into further turmoil and trigger a leadership contest.

Conclusion:

Suella Braverman's full-scale attack on Rishi Sunak poses a serious threat, to his leadership. Her appeal to the party's right-wing base, the influence of the right-wing faction, and Sunak's recent struggles could lead to a leadership challenge, a weakened position, or even resignation. The outcome of this conflict will have significant implications for the direction of the Conservative Party and British politics.