MAIDENHEAD’S MP Theresa May refuses to support the government’s controversial Rwanda asylum policy over “legality, practicality, and efficacy” reasons.

The former Prime Minister and Home Secretary spoke out against current Home Secretary Priti Patel’s plans to send refugees who reach the UK through illegal routes deported to Rwanda.

The plans have been widely criticised, even by the Archbishop of Canterbury who said it was the “opposite nature of God.”

Ms Patel said the deal with Rwanda “deals a major blow to people smugglers and their evil trade in human cargo.”

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She said: “Everyone who is considered for relocation will be screened and interviewed including an age assessment and have access to legal services.”

Speaking at the Commons, Mrs May said: “Can I say with respect to my Right Honourable friend, from what I have heard and seen so far of this policy, I do not support the removal to Rwanda policy on the grounds of legality, practicality, and efficacy.

“But I want to ask her about one very specific issue. I understand that those who will be removed will only be young men, that families will not be…well the Home Secretary shaking her head, so I’ve obviously misunderstood the policy in that sense.

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“But if it is the case that families will not be broken up, and the Home Secretary is nodding, does she not believe and where is her evidence that this will not simply lead to an increase in the trafficking of women and children?”

Throughout the shouts and noise from the opposition, Ms Patel assured the House the plan is legal and is consistent with the UK’s international and legal obligations.