The first migrant has been deported from the UK to France under a new returns agreement designed to deter small boat crossings across the English Channel.
First Flight Lands in Paris
The Home Office confirmed that an Indian national was removed from the UK on Thursday morning on an Air France flight to Paris. His return marks the first removal since the UK and France launched the year-long “one in, one out” pilot scheme in August.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the move was “an important first step to securing our borders”. She added: “It sends a message to people crossing in small boats: if you enter the UK illegally, we will seek to remove you.”
Since the agreement came into force, around 5,590 migrants have crossed the Channel and reached the UK.
Legal Challenges
The government is appealing against a High Court ruling that temporarily blocked the deportation of an Eritrean man who claimed to be a victim of modern slavery. His removal was halted just hours before he was due to be put on a flight.
Mahmood has vowed to fight what she called “vexatious, last-minute claims” lodged by migrants facing removal. But the UK’s independent anti-slavery commissioner, Eleanor Lyons, told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme she was “deeply concerned” by the comments, warning they could be exploited by traffickers.
How the Deal Works
Under the arrangement, for every migrant the UK returns to France, another person with a strong asylum claim will be brought to the UK through safe and legal routes.
The system is intended to reduce reliance on smugglers and discourage dangerous Channel crossings, while ensuring Britain continues to accept refugees in need of protection.
The Home Office said the first arrivals from France are expected “in the coming days”. Officials argue this approach will help cut the use of temporary accommodation, such as hotels, since those arriving will already have been vetted for asylum.
More Flights Planned
Further deportation flights are scheduled for the coming days, though one expected departure on Thursday was cancelled. Another could take place later the same day, the BBC understands.
The government insists the new deal will not end small boat crossings on its own but could form a key part of wider efforts to manage migration.
