UK Parliament debating Rwanda Bill and immigration policy, amidst public outcry over work permits to asylum seekers.

GB News Host Confronts Grant Shapps Over Rwanda Deterrent and Illegal Migrant Work Permits

Heated Debate Erupts as Government’s Rwanda Policy Faces Criticism for Allowing Work to Illegal Migrants


Controversial Talking Points:

  • Contradiction in Policy: Introduction of the Rwanda bill to deter illegal crossings, while simultaneously granting work permits to 16,000 illegal migrants.
  • Public Outcry: Citizen Matthew McKay’s statement reflecting working-class frustration: “What is the point in getting up every morning and trying to look after my country when my country has turned its back on hardworking people like me?”
  • Government’s Defensive Stance: Transport Secretary Grant Shapps cites measures to reduce illegal crossings, yet fails to directly address the inconsistency highlighted by the permit grants.
  • Labour Party’s Opposition: Keir Starmer’s firm stance against government measures, accused of favoring the rights of illegal immigrants over national interests.
  • Questioning the Home Office’s Efficiency: Speculation over whether the Home Office is capable of managing and tracking illegal migrants, hinting at systemic inefficiencies.


In a striking paradox, the UK government’s Rwanda bill, designed to stem the tide of illegal boat crossings, faces tough scrutiny as reports surface of 16,000 asylum seekers being granted work permits. This juxtaposition of policy and practice throws a harsh light on the government’s approach to illegal immigration.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps, confronted with this contradiction, defends the government’s stance, citing a reduction in illegal crossings and numerous legislative measures. However, this defense crumbles under the weight of public frustration, exemplified by Matthew McKay’s heartfelt outcry over perceived neglect of native working-class citizens in favor of illegal immigrants.

The government’s narrative of successful deterrence clashes with the reality of thousands being allowed to work despite their illegal entry, raising questions about the effectiveness and coherence of its immigration policy. The Labour Party, led by Keir Starmer, faces criticism for its staunch opposition to the government’s measures, accused of prioritising the human rights of illegal immigrants over national security and citizen welfare.

The article ends on a note of unresolved tension, with the government’s policies and the opposition’s criticisms both leaving the public yearning for clear and effective solutions to the complex issue of illegal immigration.


Political Outcome Analysis:

  • Strengthened Government Resolve (40% Likelihood): The government could double down on its immigration policies in response to the criticism. This stance might involve stricter enforcement of the Rwanda Bill and a reevaluation of work permit policies for asylum seekers, aiming to align practice more closely with the bill’s original intent.
  • Public Sentiment Shift (30% Likelihood): The controversy may lead to a shift in public opinion, with increased sympathy for the plight of asylum seekers and criticism of the government’s approach. This shift could pressure the government into rethinking its policies, especially in areas where public sentiment strongly influences political decisions.
  • Opposition Gains Traction (30% Likelihood): The Labour Party and other opposition groups might capitalise on the controversy to challenge the government’s stance on immigration. This scenario could lead to a more significant debate in Parliament and public forums, potentially resulting in legislative amendments or a push for more transparent and humane immigration policies.

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