The UK and France have agreed to rewrite their one-in-one-out treaty to prevent migrants removed from either country from returning, according to a joint statement released on Tuesday. The revised agreement aims to strengthen border security and reduce illegal migration across the English Channel.
Key changes to the treaty
Under the new terms, migrants who are removed from the UK or France will be banned from re-entering either country for a specified period. The joint statement said the changes would "close loopholes" that previously allowed removed individuals to attempt re-entry. The exact duration of the ban has not been disclosed, but officials said it would be "significant enough to deter repeat attempts."
The original one-in-one-out treaty, signed in 2023, required France to accept one migrant for every one the UK took back. Critics argued that the arrangement incentivized France to allow more crossings to meet quotas. The revised treaty removes this numerical requirement, replacing it with a commitment to prevent returns through enhanced cooperation.
Impact on Channel crossings
According to Home Office figures, over 45,000 migrants crossed the Channel in small boats in 2025, a 20% increase from the previous year. The UK government said the revised treaty is expected to reduce crossings by deterring those who have already been removed. French authorities have pledged to increase patrols and surveillance along the northern coast.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: "This revised treaty sends a clear message: if you are removed from the UK, you will not be able to return. We are closing the revolving door that has undermined our border security." French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau added: "We are committed to working with the UK to ensure that our shared border is secure and that those who have no right to stay are effectively prevented from coming back."
Reactions and criticism
Immigration advocacy groups have criticized the treaty, arguing that it could lead to human rights violations. Enver Solomon, chief executive of the Refugee Council, said: "Banning people from returning does not address the root causes of migration. It simply pushes people into more dangerous routes." The UK government has insisted that the treaty complies with international law and includes safeguards for asylum seekers.
The revised treaty is expected to be formally signed later this year, with implementation beginning in early 2027. Both governments have committed to reviewing its effectiveness annually.
