Migrants, Deals, and Returns: The Complex Journey Across the Channel

A migrant deported under the 'one in, one out' agreement between Britain and France has returned to the UK, traveling back by small boat, a government minister confirmed. Despite the deal's aim to reduce illegal crossings and curb smuggling operations, the migrant, unnamed, reported being a modern slavery victim.

The agreement between UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, signed in July, allows Britain to deport undocumented migrants back to France in exchange for accepting the same number of asylum seekers with British family ties. Its intention is to act as a deterrent for illegal crossings.

As arrivals this year near the previous record of 36,816, the migrant’s return underscores ongoing challenges. The government reported that 42 individuals have been returned in the pilot phase. His re-entry, only 29 days after deportation, drew major headlines, with officials pledging another removal.