First Migrants Arrive in UK from France Under "One In, One Out" Deal
A family of three, including a small child, has become the first to arrive in the UK from France under the controversial "one in, one out" migrant deal. This follows the removal of four individuals from the UK to France as part of the agreement, which aims to deter illegal crossings of the English Channel.
The "One In, One Out" Scheme Explained
The "one in, one out" scheme, agreed upon in July between UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, is designed to address illegal immigration. Under the treaty, migrants arriving in the UK via small boats will be detained and returned to France. In return, Britain will accept a similar number of individuals who arrive via a newly established legal route, subject to strict eligibility and security checks.
Details of the Agreement
The family who arrived in the UK has been granted three-month visas but with no right to work and no recourse to public funds. According to the Home Office, this move represents "critical first steps" in the implementation of the agreement. The government hopes the scheme will deter others from attempting the dangerous crossing of the English Channel. As part of the arrangement, the UK will return asylum seekers to France, who have crossed the Channel, in exchange for those who apply and are approved to come to Britain.
Reactions and Concerns
The scheme has drawn mixed reactions. A Home Office spokesperson emphasized that the initiative sends "a clear message to people-smuggling gangs that illegal entry into the UK will not be tolerated." However, critics argue the plan may only address a small fraction of migrants arriving in the UK. Imran Hussain, director of external affairs at the Refugee Council, welcomed the move, stating, "By opening up safe and legal routes, we not only give children and parents the chance to rebuild their lives with dignity, but we take power away from the smugglers who profit from people’s desperation."
Current Situation and Future Plans
So far in 2025, over 32,000 people have arrived in Britain by small boat, including more than 1,000 in one day last Friday. The pilot agreement is scheduled to run until June next year, and the government intends to increase the number of people being sent back to France under the scheme. The issue of illegal immigration remains a significant challenge for the British government, sparking considerable political debate and public concern.
