An Iranian man who crossed the English Channel in a small boat and was returned to France under the UK-France returns agreement has been removed for a second time, the Home Secretary has confirmed.
Shabana Mahmood announced on Wednesday that the man, who had been sent back to France in September, returned to the UK last month and was detected by biometrics. He was detained and his removal expedited, despite his claims of being a victim of modern slavery.
Mahmood stated: “Anyone looking to return to the UK after being removed under the UK-France agreement is wasting their time and money. This individual was detected by biometrics and detained instantly. His case was expedited, and now he has been removed again.”
The man first arrived on 6 August and was returned on 19 September. He came back via small boat on 18 October and claimed asylum. Trafficking indicators were raised, but a readmission request to France was accepted on 24 October, and his trafficking claim was rejected on 27 October. Home Office documents noted that while France provides mental health care, “capacity and language barriers can hinder access”.
Under the treaty, 94 people have been removed to France, with 57 brought to the UK legally. Officials aim to increase deportations, but French reports suggest authorities are delaying to gain leverage in renegotiations of a £476m funding deal expiring in March. French unions have also blocked plans to intercept boats at sea, citing safety concerns.
Last year, 36,816 people arrived via small boats. As of 22 October, the 2025 figure stands at 36,886 – 70 more than the previous year, with two months remaining. There has been a 12-day pause in crossings due to poor weather.
