- The UK's 'one-in, one-out' migrant returns deal with France commenced on Wednesday, designed to send migrants ineligible to stay in the UK back across the Channel.
- A key point of contention is a clause requiring the UK to confirm no 'outstanding human rights claim' before returning individuals, which critics fear could create a loophole for deportations.
- While cabinet minister Lisa Nandy said human rights cases will be heard in France, Home Office sources indicate migrants with ongoing claims will not be removed until their claims are completed in UK courts.
- The treaty also grants France and other EU states an effective veto over which individuals are returned, and stipulates the UK will bear all costs for transporting asylum seekers.
- Despite being hailed as a 'breakthrough' by the government, the Home Secretary conceded the accord is not a 'silver bullet' to stop record small boat crossings, which have already surpassed 25,000 this year.
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