Rising Migrant Crossings Challenge New UK-France Agreement
More than 500 small boat migrants arrived in Britain on the day Sir Keir Starmer signed a controversial ‘one in, one out’ deal with French President Emmanuel Macron. This development has added pressure on the Labour leader as the number of crossings this year reaches 21,690—surpassing the 2024 figures by over 50%. The latest arrivals, with an estimated 573 people crossing yesterday in ten boats, highlight a growing challenge for the government.
The figures suggest an average of about 57 people per boat, indicating that the flow of migrants remains steady despite the new agreement. However, there are concerns that the pact, which aims to send some Channel arrivals back to France while accepting others from the country, may not be as effective as promised. Reports indicate that the scheme could face obstacles from the EU Commission, raising questions about its viability.
During the Anglo-French summit, Sir Keir Starmer described the plan as “ground-breaking,” claiming it would demonstrate that those arriving by small boats would be returned to France. Yet, as the talks were underway, hundreds more migrants continued to cross the Channel from northern France, underscoring the challenges of enforcing such measures.
Experts have criticized the proposals, stating they only address a minimal portion of the issue. Leaks suggested that initially, only 50 migrants a week, or roughly one in 17 arrivals, would be sent back to France. However, these details were not officially confirmed by the leaders. Home Secretary Michelle Cooper emphasized that the numbers are not fixed and that the program will be rolled out gradually, with updates provided as it progresses.
Despite potential objections from EU states, Cooper expressed confidence that the European Commission would support the agreement. She noted that discussions with EU commissioners and other European interior ministers had been ongoing, with the French interior minister involved since October last year. According to her, the design of the plan was intended to align with all concerns, ensuring its feasibility.
Cooper also dismissed criticisms from Mr. Macron, who suggested that Brexit had complicated efforts to tackle illegal immigration. She argued that people smugglers would exploit any situation, emphasizing the need for a robust response.
Downing Street stated that the UK is confident the agreement complies with domestic and international law. A spokesperson highlighted the extensive work done to ensure the system’s resilience against legal challenges, noting that France is a safe country and a member of the ECHR. The government has already discussed the arrangements with the European Commission.
Sir Keir Starmer is currently holding talks with his Cabinet at Chequers, his country estate. He described the actions being taken as “hard-headed and aggressive,” stating that for the first time, migrants arriving via small boats would be detained and returned to France promptly. In exchange, a different individual would be allowed to enter the UK through a safe, legal route, subject to strict security checks and only open to those who have not attempted to enter illegally.
However, the Prime Minister did not specify how quickly migrants would be sent back in total or on a weekly basis when the scheme launches, which he said would occur in the “coming weeks.” Mr. Macron emphasized that the deal requires legal ratification but did not set a specific timeline.
Critics have labeled the concept of a “migrant merry go round” as ineffective. Shadow home secretary Chris Philp called the deal with France a “gimmick” that would offer no real deterrent. He pointed out that the reported figure of 50 a week represents only 6% of those crossing the Channel, meaning 94% would still be allowed to stay in the UK. This, he argued, would not serve as a meaningful deterrent against illegal immigration.
