After several false starts, Thursday, September 18th, saw Britain deport the first migrant to France under its new “one-in, one-out” arrangement—backed by both governments—as part of Britain’s efforts to stop the illegal Channel crossings.
According to the UK Home Office
A man who arrived in the UK by small boat in August was removed on a commercial flight this morning.
French authorities verified the removal with AFP sources, stating that the person deported from the UK was an Indian national.
Britain’s ministry confirmed “Further flights are due to take place this week and next week.”
Under the agreement, the UK is able to detain and deport so-called ‘small boat’ migrants who are not entitled to asylum, particularly those who travelled through safe countries before reaching Britain.
As part of the deal, London has agreed to take in the same number of migrants from France—but only those applying legally for a UK visa through an online platform, ideally with a demonstrable family link to Britain. The pilot programme began in August and will run until June 2026.
Keir Starmer reached the arrangement with French leader Emmanuel Macron two months ago, aiming to tackle the mounting political crisis caused by illegal Channel crossings.
Official data showed that illegal arrivals soared 27% on the previous year, with 88% of those coming by small boats—since Keir Starmer became prime minister
France has announced it will begin its own deportations on Saturday, according to the interior ministry.
