A second migrant has been sent back to France as part of the “one in, one out” arrangement after an unsuccessful legal challenge in the High Court. The Eritrean individual was deported on a flight departing Heathrow for Paris at 6:15 am on Friday, as confirmed by the Home Office. This action follows the deportation of an Indian citizen on Thursday, which was praised as a significant move by Keir Starmer.
The government aims to dissuade individuals from using smugglers to reach the UK through these removals. Meanwhile, distressing images emerged on Friday morning showing children being loaded onto a small boat off the French shore. A man was observed carrying a young child on his shoulders as they entered the Channel on a vessel departing from Gravelines beach in Calais.
In an effort to dismantle the operations of criminal syndicates facilitating the perilous crossings, the government has promised stringent measures. In 2024, at least 78 lives were lost during such crossings. During his visit to the UK, Donald Trump proposed leveraging the military to combat trafficking.
Addressing the President’s suggestion, Business Secretary Peter Kyle noted the enhanced capabilities of the UK Border Force and its collaboration with the Navy. While acknowledging the military’s potential involvement, he emphasized the current priorities of the armed forces in national defense matters.
The government is open to legislative changes to curb the influx of small boats across the Channel. Peter Kyle stated, “We are ready to challenge and amend laws where necessary to address this issue.” Keir Starmer expressed satisfaction with the initial deportation under the UK-France agreement, which mandates detaining and repatriating small boat arrivals.
Under this agreement, the UK will receive an equivalent number of individuals with valid claims who have not attempted the Channel crossing. Starmer praised the progress made, highlighting the importance of demonstrating the feasibility of such returns and advocating for increased scale in these efforts.
