Controversial policy that will send asylum seekers who arrive in the UK to Rwanda
United Kingdom
United Kingdom

Controversial policy that will send asylum seekers who arrive in the UK to Rwanda

On Tuesday, we discussed how some asylum seekers who arrive in the UK will be sent to Rwanda.

The government says the scheme - which faces legal challenges - will discourage others from crossing the English Channel.

With more on this controversial policy, here's our World News Editor, Kate Gregan. 

Every day, people searching for a better life are cramming into small inflatable boats, and making the difficult journey from France to England. 

Already this year, more than 10,000 people have done so -- and most arrive with the help of people smugglers. 

The British government is hoping to change it. 

A five-year trial will see some refugees who arrive in the UK be sent to Rwanda, to claim asylum there.

For the most part, those that arrive do apply for asylum -- and many are accepted -- but Boris Johnson says they want to crack down on those arriving illegally.

The government expects tens of thousands of people to be relocated under the scheme, and it's thought to be aimed mostly at single, young migrants.

The MP struck the deal with Rwanda after previous failed attempts with Ghana and Albania.

Rwandan officials say they signed up to the scheme to help resolve the international refugee crisis, and to receive investment to help them in the future.

But the policy is being met with a wide range of opposition - including from former Conservative Prime Minister, Theresa May. 

Meanwhile, charities and lawyers representing asylum seekers have launched legal action against the UK Home Office, and the policy is being judged against the UN refugee convention. 

And there are concerns about Rwanda as a destination -- with critics highlighting the nation's human rights record.

But - when speaking to the BBC - Rwandan Government spokesperson, Yolande Makolo disputed that.  

Britain has paid Rwanda more than 230-million-dollars [120m gdp] to take the refugees, and will make additional payments based on the number of people deported.

The government says they currently spend almost 10-million dollars on hotels a day to house homeless migrants.