The Home Office has endorsed a publicity campaign targeting asylum seekers in northern France with posters and leaflets warning them of the dangers of crossing the English Channel and the risk of being returned under a new 'one in, one out' deal. The signs, in English and French, will be placed near beaches around Calais and Dunkirk, aiming to dissuade people from attempting the journey to the UK.
The campaign, approved by the French government, is believed to be the first of its kind to try to discourage asylum seekers in France from travelling to the UK. However, refugee organisations have dismissed it as a 'gimmick', arguing that refugees need practical support rather than deterrents.
A Whitehall source described the campaign as a 'big deal' for the French authorities, emphasising the need to inform people that the crossing is dangerous and that they could be returned under the new agreement. More than 50,000 people have crossed the Channel in small boats since Labour came to power in July 2024.
The campaign was drawn up under former Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and endorsed by her successor, Shabana Mahmood, who has made border security her top priority. The 'one in, one out' deal, confirmed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer in July, allows the UK to return one person who entered irregularly in exchange for accepting someone from France with a stronger asylum claim.
Refugee organisations have expressed doubt about the campaign's effectiveness. Enver Solomon of the Refugee Council called for accurate information and practical support instead of 'tough talking tactics'. Steve Smith of Care4Calais said a sign would not deter anyone, urging the government to create safe routes for asylum claims.
