The first group of migrants were detained on Wednesday, August 6th in the UK, under a new agreement with France that allows for the return of those arriving illegally. The pilot scheme tbegan yesterday, with arrivals in Dover immediately taken to immigration removal centres.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said
If you break the law to enter this country, you will face being sent back. When I say I will stop at nothing to secure our borders, I mean it.
Officials expect 50 returns per week as part of the first phase, with the figure projected to increase. The measure comes amid growing domestic pressure over irregular migration and rising concerns about border security.
Under the new agreement, about 800 migrants will be returned to France this year—a relatively small number compared to the tens of thousands who have crossed into the UK since Labour’s election victory last July.
