Failed asylum seeks will be paid thousands to go to Rwanda

‘In practice, this cohort is currently in a state of limbo’

- Michael Knowles

MIGRANTS will be offered thousands of pounds to encourage them to move to Rwanda, under a new government plan.

Failed asylum seekers could be given up to £3,000 to board a flight to Kigali voluntarily after an agreement was struck between the UK and Rwandan governments.

The deal separate to the controversial deportation scheme - is designed to resolve the crisis of tens of thousands of migrants being stuck in the UK illegally.

They will be eligible to move to Rwanda under the "voluntary returns scheme" after having their asylum application rejected.

A government source said: "We hope there will be failed asylum seekers out there who have no right to benefits or work in the UK, might be in hotels for prolonged periods of time and may want to take up the opportunity."

The scheme is expected to be particularly effective for failed asylum seekers who cannot be deported back to their home countries, such as Afghanistan or Iran.

It is the first time the UK has attempted such a move with a third country. Migrants voluntarily leaving on a deportation flight can receive up to £3,000 in support.

Asylum seekers who choose to be relocated will get the same support as those sent to Kigali under the forced deportation scheme.