A migrant has been repatriated to France as part of a new ‘one in one out’ agreement, marking a significant development following a deal between the UK and French President Emmanuel Macron. The individual, an Indian national who arrived in the UK via a small boat last month, was flown back to France on Thursday morning.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood praised the deportation as a crucial initial step, with additional flights anticipated in the coming days. As per the terms of the agreement, asylum seekers undertaking perilous journeys will face removal, while an equal number of individuals with valid claims will be permitted entry.
Emphasizing the importance of securing borders, Mahmood warned illegal entrants that they will be subject to removal. She vowed to challenge any attempts to thwart deportations through legal means, underscoring the necessity of safe and legal avenues for those genuinely fleeing persecution.
The recent repatriation follows a temporary reprieve granted to an Eritrean man after a legal challenge earlier in the week. Enver Solomon, chief executive at Refugee Council, expressed reservations about the agreement, urging fair and competent implementation to safeguard vulnerable groups such as trafficking survivors, torture victims, and children.
Solomon stressed the need for a comprehensive strategy targeting human trafficking networks and expanding safe and legal pathways for refugees. He called for the reversal of the government’s suspension of family reunion visas for refugees, particularly affecting women and children seeking safe passage to the UK.
In a related development, a report suggested that enhancing the returns deal with France could lead to a 75% reduction in small boat crossings over the next three years. Former Labour Home Secretary Charles Clarke advocated for a pragmatic and compassionate approach, citing polling data indicating public support for permitting up to 50,000 asylum seekers under a ‘one in, one out’ arrangement.
While the initial intake is projected at 50 individuals per week, British Future recommends scaling up the program to accommodate higher numbers. However, the Home Office faced a setback when the High Court temporarily blocked one of the first planned deportations.
According to a report by British Future, expanding the program to accept up to 50,000 refugees in a controlled manner could garner public backing if it aligns with an agreement where France agrees to repatriate unauthorized crossers. Drawing parallels with former US President Joe Biden’s successful reduction of illegal border crossings, the report suggests this approach could significantly curb small boat arrivals.