UK and France's deportation deal has returned 75 migrants, but Channel crossings hit 36,950 in 2025.

The UK and France's "one in, one out" pilot agreement has resulted in 75 migrants deported from the UK to France after crossing the English Channel by small boat, while 51 others were admitted legally following security checks. Launched in August after a deal between Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, the scheme aims to deter illegal crossings by returning those who arrive illegally in exchange for legal entries. Despite the effort, over 36,950 people have crossed the Channel in 2025—surpassing last year’s total—prompting criticism, including from Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who called the policy ineffective after an Iranian man re-entered the UK by small boat just weeks after being returned. The Home Office maintains the returns send a clear deterrent message and is expanding enforcement.