The Home Office has endorsed a publicity campaign in northern France, featuring posters and leaflets near beaches around Calais and Dunkirk, warning asylum seekers against attempting to reach the UK via small boats. The signs, in English and French, highlight the dangers of Channel crossings and the risk of being returned under a new 'one in, one out' agreement with France.
Refugee organisations have dismissed the campaign as a 'gimmick', arguing that it will not deter desperate individuals fleeing war and persecution. Enver Solomon, CEO of the Refugee Council, called for accurate information and practical support from trusted organisations like the Red Cross, rather than 'tough talking tactics'. Steve Smith of Care4Calais stated that a sign would not stop anyone, urging the government to create safe routes instead.
The campaign, approved by French authorities, is part of a tougher Home Office stance. A Whitehall source described it as a 'big deal' for France to allow the campaign, aiming to ensure migrants understand the risks and the possibility of return. Over 50,000 people have crossed the Channel since Labour took power in July 2024, with a woman dying on Tuesday when her dinghy deflated off Dover.
The 'one in, one out' deal, announced in July, allows the UK to return one irregular entrant in exchange for accepting a French asylum seeker with a stronger claim. Returns, initially expected in August, are now anticipated within weeks, starting with about 50 people. The Home Office has not disclosed the campaign's cost.
