Boris Johnson knows the cruel plan to deport asylum seekers is unworkable, but hopes it will distract voters from Partygate and economic woes, writes Tom Lerwill. Plus letters from John Morrison, Felicity Laurence, John Ling and Rosie Clinton
Far from “chaos” and a “significant and embarrassing blow for Boris Johnson”, I think this government’s plan is proceeding just as they would like (Rwanda asylum flight cancelled after 11th-hour ECHR intervention, 14 June). Immigration doesn’t bother them, but voters’ perception of it does. So now the whole issue can be blamed on European courts and “lefty lawyers”.
Drawing on the vast reserves of white British racism, the Tories can now re-enter their favourite role as victim and beat the racist drum. For them, this will hopefully drown out Partygate, the cost of living crisis, Northern Ireland and all other Brexit-related economic chaos. Look forward to another snappy three-word slogan (“Get migrants out”?). Despite protests from bishops and anyone else with a conscience, it will probably work.
Tom Lerwill
Oswestry, Shropshire
