Have the First Illegal Migrants Been Detained in Britain Under the Return Deal with France?
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Synopsis
The recent detention of illegal migrants under a new return deal between Britain and France raises questions about its effectiveness and potential deterrents. As the first group is sent back, the implications of this agreement are becoming clearer. Will this be a turning point in managing illegal immigration?
Key Takeaways
- First illegal migrants detained under a new return deal.
- The deal aims to deter illegal crossings.
- British officials to refer migrants for return within three days.
- The pilot scheme lasts for 11 months.
- Over 25,000 crossings reported in 2025 alone.
London, Aug 7 (NationPress) The initial group of illegal migrants has been apprehended under the recent return agreement between Britain and France, as confirmed by the British government on Thursday.
"We have detained the first illegal migrants under our new deal before returning them to France," stated British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in a post on X.
"If you break the law to enter this country, you will face being sent back," he emphasized.
The Home Office reported that the migrants were taken into custody after arriving on a small boat on Wednesday, and preparations are underway to return them to France in the coming weeks, according to Xinhua news agency.
The British Home Secretary Yvette Cooper did not disclose the exact number of migrants in custody or those slated for return to France. Critics have raised concerns about whether the new agreement will act as a deterrent for potential migrants.
"The transfers to immigration removal centers are in progress as we speak, so we won't provide operational details at this point that criminal gangs can exploit," Cooper noted.
"But no one should doubt: anyone who arrives from now on is eligible for immediate detention and return," she added.
British officials are expected to initiate referrals for returns to France within three days of a migrant's arrival by small boat, with French authorities responding within a 14-day timeframe.
The pilot scheme, designed to last 11 months, will allow Britain to accept an equal number of asylum seekers from France who have not attempted illegal crossings and can pass security and eligibility checks.
As of July 30, over 25,000 individuals had crossed the Channel in small boats in 2025, representing approximately 49 percent more than at the same time in 2024, according to Home Office statistics.
Point of View
The recent actions taken by the British government to detain illegal migrants reflect a decisive yet contentious approach to immigration control. While the return deal with France aims to create a more stringent immigration policy, it remains to be seen whether this will effectively deter future illegal crossings. The ongoing debate surrounding this agreement highlights the complexity of immigration law and the humanitarian concerns involved.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new return deal between Britain and France?
The return deal allows Britain to return illegal migrants to France, with the initial group being detained under this agreement.
How many migrants have been detained?
The British government has not disclosed the exact number of migrants detained under the new deal.
What happens to the detained migrants?
Detained migrants will be returned to France in the coming weeks, as per the new agreement.
When was the return deal announced?
The return deal was confirmed on August 7, 2023.
How will this affect future illegal crossings?
Critics question whether this new policy will serve as an effective deterrent for potential illegal migrants.
