The government is eager to address the small boat crisis, with the first deportations of migrants to France set to commence this week.
Asylum seekers who arrived via small boats will be returned to France as part of a deal struck by Keir Starmer with French President Emmanuel Macron in July. The first group of migrants was detained on August 6 under this new initiative, where the UK will repatriate individuals to France in exchange for those approved to enter the UK.
Over 30,000 people have crossed the perilous Channel to Britain this year, marking the earliest such figure since records began in 2018. This development follows tensions over the use of hotels to accommodate asylum seekers during the summer.
Peter Kyle, speaking on Sky News, expressed anticipation for the upcoming return flights, emphasizing the government’s efforts to manage the migration crisis inherited from the previous administration. Cooperation with France is highlighted as crucial for effective outcomes.
The Home Office confirmed that under the new UK-France treaty, individuals arriving in small boats can now be detained and sent back to France. The first returns are expected to happen soon, as safeguarding the UK border is deemed a top priority to restore order and security.