What is a ‘ministerial direction’ and why did Priti Patel issue one over Rwanda policy?
The IndependentJust 11 days before Priti Patel unveiled her multi-million-pound proposal to send some asylum seekers to Rwanda for processing, one minister in her department made clear he was left in the dark. Charities and campaign groups have also condemned the move, while the UN’s refugee agency said the proposal to outsource the processing of refugees was “unacceptable” and would be an “egregious breach” of international law. It also emerged that Ms Patel faced objections from inside the Home Office but decided to use “ministerial direction” to overrule concerns raised by department officials. A Home Office source attempted to justify the measure, saying that “Home Office officials are clear that deterring illegal entry would create significant savings. It would be wrong to let a lack of precise modelling delay a policy aimed at reducing illegal migration, saving lives, and breaking the business model of the smuggling gangs.” “Ministerial direction” is used by a secretary of state when their department’s permanent secretary − the most senior civil servant − raises objections to a government policy, typically on value for money.
History of this topic
Priti Patel would do Rwanda-style deportations again as she woos Reform voters
The Independent
Priti Patel: ‘Vocal minority’ celebrating Supreme Court’s Rwanda ruling
The Independent
Priti Patel blames Foreign Office for wrecking her Rwanda plans for illegal migrants
The Telegraph
Government officials told Priti Patel not to do asylum deal with Rwanda, court hears
The Independent
Priti Patel asked for details of Rwanda policy ahead of possible legal challenge
The Independent
Theresa May: I cannot support Priti Patel’s Rwanda migrants policy
The Telegraph
Top Home Office civil servant raised objections over Rwanda asylum policy
The Independent
Priti Patel faces Home Office mutiny over Rwanda migrants plan
The TelegraphDiscover Related
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