More Migrants Arrive Than Leave Under ‘One-In, One-Out’ Deal

More migrants have arrived in the UK than been sent back to France under the government’s much-publicised “one-in, one-out” migrant returns deal, newly released figures have revealed. The Home Secretary confirmed that since the pilot scheme began, 350 people have been allowed to enter Britain through the legal route linked to the agreement, while only 281 migrants have been returned to France after crossing the Channel illegally.
The disclosure has sparked renewed criticism from opposition MPs, who argue the policy has failed to deter small-boat crossings and risks increasing overall numbers. Ministers have defended the scheme, describing it as a limited pilot designed to establish a controlled and lawful system while reducing dangerous journeys across the Channel.
They insist the agreement is still in its early stages and say returns could increase as cooperation with France develops. The figures, however, have intensified political pressure on the government as migration continues to dominate the national debate.