The UK and France have agreed to rewrite their 'one in, one out' treaty to prevent migrants removed from the UK from returning to France, according to sources on both sides. The move is part of efforts to reduce the number of people crossing the English Channel in small boats.
Revised Treaty Details
Under the current arrangement, for every migrant removed from the UK and sent back to France, France agrees to take one fewer migrant from the UK. However, this has led to a loophole where migrants removed from the UK can simply return to France and then attempt the crossing again. The revised treaty aims to close this loophole by ensuring that once a migrant is removed from the UK, they are not allowed back into France, or if they do return, they are subject to immediate removal.
According to a French government source, the new treaty will include provisions for the sharing of biometric data and real-time information to track individuals who have been removed. The UK Home Office confirmed that negotiations are ongoing, with a focus on 'ensuring removals are effective and durable.'
Impact on Channel Crossings
In 2025, over 30,000 migrants crossed the Channel in small boats, a 20% increase from the previous year. The UK government has made reducing these numbers a priority, and the revised treaty is seen as a key tool. However, critics argue that the treaty alone will not address the root causes of migration, such as conflict and poverty in countries of origin.
Home Office figures show that in the first five months of 2026, the number of crossings has decreased by 15% compared to the same period in 2025, which officials attribute in part to enhanced cooperation with France. The new treaty is expected to be signed later this year.
Political Reaction
The opposition Labour party has welcomed the move but called for a broader strategy. Shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper said: 'While closing loopholes is sensible, the government must also invest in safe routes and tackle the smuggling gangs that profit from this dangerous trade.' Meanwhile, refugee charities have expressed concern that the treaty could lead to a 'race to the bottom' in asylum standards.
