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Sunday 22/02/2026

Second Migrant Returns to UK Amidst Challenges in "One In, One Out" Scheme

Person at UK border control with passport and biometric scanners
Ethan BrooksEthan Brooks

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • A second migrant returned to the UK after being deported to France under the "one in, one out" scheme, highlighting challenges in the UK-France migrant deal.
  • The Home Office confirmed the individual was detected using biometrics and will be sent back to France promptly.
  • Nearly 400 migrants crossed the Channel on Sunday, adding to the 39,075 arrivals this year, despite efforts to deter crossings.
  • Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is considering adopting Denmark's immigration model to tighten UK immigration rules.
  • Criticism arises as only a small percentage of migrants have been returned to France, questioning the effectiveness of the current policy.

The UK government's "one in, one out" migrant scheme has faced another setback as a second individual, previously deported to France, has returned to the UK. The Home Office confirmed that the man, whose identity remains undisclosed, was detected using biometric technology and detained immediately upon arrival. He is set to be returned to France as swiftly as possible.

Challenges in the UK-France Migrant Deal

The "one in, one out" scheme, established in September, aims to deter migrants from crossing the English Channel in small boats by returning them to France. However, the recent return of a second deportee underscores the difficulties in enforcing the agreement. Last month, an Iranian man similarly re-entered the UK after being deported, only to be sent back to France again.

Rising Channel Crossings

Despite the bilateral agreement, Channel crossings continue at an alarming rate. Nearly 400 migrants made the journey on Sunday alone, contributing to the 39,075 arrivals recorded this year. The Home Office remains firm in its stance, with a spokesperson stating, "Anyone looking to return to the UK after being removed under the UK-France agreement is wasting their time and money."

Exploring New Immigration Models

In response to the ongoing challenges, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is considering a major overhaul of the UK's immigration policies, potentially drawing inspiration from Denmark's stringent system. Denmark has successfully reduced its asylum claims to a 40-year low, a feat Mahmood aims to replicate by tightening rules on family reunions and expediting the removal of those without the right to stay.

Criticism and Political Implications

The scheme has faced criticism for its limited success, with shadow home secretary Chris Philp highlighting that only a small fraction of migrants have been returned to France. "Since the French returns deal was announced, only a handful of illegal immigrants have been returned to France while around 20,000 have arrived here," Philp remarked, questioning the policy's deterrent effect.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The return of a second migrant under the "one in, one out" scheme raises questions about the effectiveness of the UK-France migrant deal. If the current trend continues, the UK may face increased pressure to reassess its immigration strategies. The potential adoption of Denmark's model could signal a significant shift in policy, aiming to reduce incentives for illegal crossings and streamline deportations. However, such changes may face legal and political challenges, requiring careful navigation to balance humanitarian concerns with border security. As the situation evolves, the UK government will need to demonstrate that its policies can effectively manage migration while maintaining international cooperation.