UK Detains First Small Boat Migrants Under Returns Treaty With France

The UK government has begun detaining migrants who arrive illegally on small boats under a new “one in, one out” returns treaty with France, with the first detainees held at immigration removal centers in Dover pending their removal. The scheme, launched under the Labour government, allows the UK to return migrants to France within a structured timeframe, while also permitting some asylum seekers with UK connections to come from France in exchange. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized that this pilot scheme aims to deter dangerous crossings and disrupt the business model of criminal smuggling gangs, sending a strong warning to migrants considering the risky journey. Although concrete numbers of detainees have not been disclosed, it is understood that up to 50 migrants per week could be returned to France. The Home Office has released footage of the detention process, showing biometric data being collected ahead of deportations. While the scheme marks a significant step in border enforcement, concerns remain about possible delays due to human rights challenges and the scheme’s limited scope.