Fresh Conservative Party divisions have erupted after Tory MP Paul Mahmood suggested sending asylum seekers who cross the Channel to Ireland, a comment immediately condemned by his own colleague Paul Bristow.
The controversial remarks, made during a discussion on small boat crossings, have sparked outrage and highlight the ongoing internal conflict within the governing party over immigration policy.
Brexit Consequences and Migration Pressures
Mahmood's comments come amid increasing pressure on Ireland's immigration system, which some analysts attribute to the UK's post-Brexit policies. The MP argued that since Ireland represents the "only land border with the UK," it should become the destination for deported migrants.
Paul Bristow, Conservative MP for Peterborough, quickly distanced himself from the remarks, stating: "This is not the kind of rhetoric we should be using. It's inflammatory and unhelpful."
Growing Tory Divisions on Immigration
The public disagreement between two Conservative MPs reveals deepening fractures within the party regarding how to handle the sensitive issue of small boat crossings. With the Rwanda deportation plan facing legal challenges and political opposition, the government appears increasingly divided on its migration strategy.
Political analysts suggest that such public disagreements could weaken the government's position on immigration and damage its credibility with voters who prioritise controlled borders.
International Relations Implications
The suggestion also risks straining UK-Ireland relations, particularly given the delicate status of Northern Ireland and the ongoing implementation of the Windsor Framework. Irish officials have previously expressed concerns about being treated as a "dumping ground" for UK migration issues.
As the debate continues, the Conservative Party faces mounting pressure to present a united front on immigration while addressing the practical challenges of managing Channel crossings.
