Sunak Delays Rwanda Flights Until After Election Amid Inflation Concerns

Sunak acknowledges that the deportation flights to Rwanda won't commence before the elections, and refutes claims that the election was scheduled due to anticipated hikes in inflation. The Prime Minister has unexpectedly announced a general election set for July 4, catching numerous MPs off guard.

Political journalist @alixculbertson

Thursday, May 23, 2024, 2:

Rishi Sunak has acknowledged that the deportation flights to Rwanda will not commence prior to the general election, while refuting claims that an early election this summer was called due to anticipated increases in inflation.

The prime minister announced that the initial deportation flights for asylum seekers to an African country are scheduled to commence in July, after several months of discussions.

However, following the announcement of a general election set for July 4, doubts have been raised about whether the flights will proceed as planned.

"He informed the BBC that the initial flights are scheduled for July."

He continued, stating, "Should I be re-elected as prime minister on July 5, we will implement the Rwanda scheme and ensure the flights are operational."

When questioned about when the flights would occur, Mr. Sunak informed LBC, "No, they will take place after the election. The preparatory work is already underway."

Stay tuned for real-time updates following the announcement of

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'All flights have been canceled'

Earlier in the month, Sir Keir Starmer informed Sky News, "There will be no flights. I intend to eliminate the scheme, which means there will be no departures."

"Should Labour emerge victorious in the upcoming general election, all scheduled flights will be grounded."

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The Prime Minister's announcement of a summer election on Monday caught many off guard, leading several MPs to speculate if the decision was influenced by anticipated hikes in inflation and a potential rise in small boat arrivals during the warmer months.

"Actually, that's not the true cause," Mr. Sunak informed the BBC.

"Regarding the economy, it's clear that there's still much to be done. I am aware that the impacts of our recent initiatives are only beginning to be felt by the public."

"Despite the ongoing financial challenges that many individuals face as they check their monthly bank statements, it's clear that we have made strides forward and stability has been restored."

Inflation dropped to 2.3%, hitting its lowest point in almost three years, just hours before Mr. Sunak declared the election.

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