Rishi Sunak's Rwanda plan has been handed a major boost as MPs rejected the first amendment tabled by the House of Lords.

MPs voted 306 to 229, a majority 77, to overturn an amendment which would have required independent monitors to certify the African nation is a safe country.

Illegal Migration Minister Michael Tomlinson claimed the "time has come" to pass the Prime Minister's flagship policy ahead of tonight's division.

He told MPs: “Criminal gangs are determined who comes to the United Kingdom as vulnerable people are being lured into unseaworthy boats and risking their lives.

"Billions of pounds of taxpayers’ money is being spent on illegal migration.

“Our resources and services are reaching their limits.

"We must put an end to it. We must pass this legislation and stop the boats.

"I urge this House once again to send an unambiguous message to the other place.

"The time has come for the Labour Lords to respect the views of this House and let this Bill now pass.”