A migrant has been repatriated to France as part of a new ‘one in one out’ agreement, marking a significant development following negotiations between the UK and French authorities. The individual, an Indian national who arrived in the UK via a small boat last month, was flown back on Thursday morning. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood praised this initial deportation as a crucial step forward, with additional repatriation flights anticipated in the coming days. Under the terms of the deal, asylum seekers undertaking perilous sea crossings will be deported, while an equal number of individuals with valid asylum claims will be permitted entry into the UK.
Emphasizing the importance of securing borders, Mahmood conveyed a stern message to those attempting illegal entry, asserting that such actions would result in removal. She vowed to challenge any legal hindrances obstructing deportations, highlighting the government’s commitment to aiding genuine refugees through safe and lawful channels rather than hazardous journeys. The recent repatriation came after a legal dispute involving an Eritrean man who was temporarily spared from deportation pending further evidence submission.
Enver Solomon, the chief executive of Refugee Council, expressed reservations about the repatriation pact, emphasizing the need for fair and competent implementation. Solomon underscored the necessity of safeguarding survivors of trafficking, torture, and children from deportation, while advocating for increased safe and legal pathways for refugees. He also criticized the suspension of family reunion visas for refugees, calling for its reversal to facilitate the safe arrival of vulnerable individuals.
Furthermore, a report suggested that enhancing the returns agreement with France could substantially reduce small boat crossings by 75% within three years. Former Labour Home Secretary Charles Clarke urged policymakers to adopt a pragmatic and compassionate strategy in addressing asylum issues. Public opinion polls indicated significant support for allowing up to 50,000 asylum seekers into the UK under a ‘one in, one out’ arrangement, with suggestions to increase the intake gradually.
While the initial repatriation efforts are set to commence soon, a temporary legal injunction has halted one of the initial deportation plans. A report from British Future proposed a considerable expansion of the intake capacity to accommodate controlled refugee admissions across the Channel, citing the potential for public backing if coupled with reciprocal arrangements with France. The report highlighted the effectiveness of analogous approaches in reducing illegal crossings, drawing parallels with former US President Joe Biden’s success in curbing unauthorized entries from Mexico.
