How Did Over 1,000 People Cross the English Channel in Just One Day?

On Friday, over 1,000 individuals successfully crossed the English Channel in small boats, marking a significant moment in the ongoing migration crisis. The UK government confirmed the return of two individuals to France as part of a new policy aimed at deterring such crossings.

Last updated: 19 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• 1,072 people crossed the Channel in 13 boats on Friday.
• Total crossings in 2025 have reached a record 32,103.
• Three migrants have been returned to France under a new "one in, one out" policy.
• Ministers claim the returns will deter further crossings, while opposition voices disagree.
• More returns are planned under this pilot scheme in the coming months.

The Current Situation of Channel Crossings

As of Friday, 1,072 people made the perilous journey across the English Channel in 13 separate boats. This surge in crossings has resulted in a total of 32,103 individuals having made the journey since the beginning of the year—an unprecedented figure for this time frame. The government is facing increasing scrutiny as these numbers continue to rise, highlighting the ongoing challenges surrounding illegal migration.

Government Response and New Policy

The UK government is implementing a new approach to tackle the issue of small boat crossings, known as the "one in, one out" policy. Under this scheme, individuals who successfully cross the Channel will be met with deportations back to France. Recently, an Eritrean man and an Iranian man were returned on Friday, following the removal of an Indian man on Thursday. This policy aims to create a deterrent effect against future crossings.

Legal Challenges and Implementation

The implementation of the return policy faced legal scrutiny, but the government recently won a challenge that allowed for the deportation of the Eritrean national. This legal victory is seen as a pivotal moment in enforcing the new policy, as it legitimises the government's approach to managing migration and asylum claims.

Political Reactions

The government's actions have drawn mixed reactions from political leaders. Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy praised the returns, asserting they provide an "immediate deterrent" against those considering the dangerous journey across the Channel. In contrast, Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp has dismissed these claims, stating that the returns offer "no deterrent effect whatsoever" and characterising the number of returns as "pathetic."

The Future of Asylum Seekers

Looking ahead, the government plans to increase the number of individuals being sent back to France under the pilot deal. Additionally, the first asylum seekers are expected to arrive in the UK from France in the coming week as part of the reciprocal aspect of the agreement. This development raises questions about how effective the policy will be in managing the flow of people seeking asylum in the UK.

What Happens Next?

As the government continues to navigate the complexities of migration policy, the success of the "one in, one out" deal remains to be seen. The increase in crossings indicates a pressing need for comprehensive solutions that address the root causes of migration while ensuring the safety and rights of those seeking asylum. The ongoing developments in this area will be closely monitored by both government officials and advocacy groups.

In conclusion, the situation surrounding English Channel crossings is evolving rapidly, and the government's response will play a crucial role in shaping future migration patterns. With record numbers crossing and a new policy in place, the implications for both migrants and the UK are significant. How will the government balance enforcement with humanitarian concerns? Only time will tell. #MigrantCrisis #ChannelCrossings #UKPolicy

FAQs

What is the "one in, one out" policy?

The "one in, one out" policy is a UK government initiative aimed at deterring small boat crossings by returning individuals who cross the Channel back to France. It allows for a reciprocal arrangement where asylum seekers can also be brought to the UK from France.

How many people have crossed the Channel this year?

As of now, a total of 32,103 individuals have crossed the English Channel in small boats in 2025, which is a record for this time of year.

What are the legal challenges surrounding the return policy?

The return policy has faced legal scrutiny, but the government recently won a challenge that allows them to deport certain individuals back to France. This ruling supports the enforcement of the policy.

What are the expected outcomes of the new policy?

The government hopes that the "one in, one out" policy will deter future crossings by creating a perception of risk for those considering the dangerous journey across the Channel.

Who is being returned to France under the new policy?

Recent returns under the policy have included an Eritrean man and an Iranian man, following the deportation of an Indian man. The government plans to increase the number of returns in the coming months.