For the first time under Keir Starmer’s “one in, one out” policy, migrants who arrived in the UK by small boat have been detained and are expected to be sent back to France within three weeks, according to the Home Office.
The detentions started on Wednesday afternoon, with those identified from Channel crossings being held in immigration removal centers while awaiting deportation. Officials stated that the UK will refer cases to France within three days, and French authorities are expected to respond within 14 days.
Under the new system, a small number of migrants arriving by boat will be chosen for return to France, while the UK will accept an equal number of asylum seekers from France in exchange. However, concerns remain about the agreement’s wording, with immigration lawyers warning that its unclear terms could face legal challenges from those trying to avoid deportation.
A parallel scheme has also begun, allowing asylum seekers with UK connections to apply for entry. Applicants must meet eligibility criteria, including providing identity documents and a recent photo. Those selected will undergo strict security and biometric checks, ensuring only approved individuals can enter through this route.
As the pilot program moves forward, the Home Office is launching a campaign to discourage people from risking their lives or money on dangerous crossings. The initiative will be promoted across multiple platforms in the coming days.
While ministers have hailed the deal as a “game-changer,” Home Office sources say it will initially apply to only about 50 asylum seekers. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated: “Criminal gangs have spent years exploiting our borders, and while it will take time to dismantle their operations, these detentions are a crucial step in breaking their business model.”
She added: “This is just the beginning of the pilot scheme, and it will evolve over time. But we’re on track to achieve what no previous government has done—returning small boat arrivals to France and strengthening our borders through this new approach.”
The agreement, published on Tuesday, comes as the prime minister faces growing pressure to stop Channel crossings. The UK will cover the costs of transporting asylum seekers to and from France. The deal must be renewed by June 11 next year and can be terminated with one month’s notice by either side.
Under the terms, individuals with pending asylum claims cannot be removed. France can also refuse a deportation request if it believes the person poses a threat to public security, health, or international relations.
So far in 2025, over 25,000 people have reached the UK by small boat—a record high for this time of year since records began in 2018. This marks a 48% increase compared to the same period last year.
