An Iranian migrant who returned to the UK weeks after being deported under the Labour government’s ‘returns deal’ with France remains in the country, two weeks after his re-entry.
The man, who has not been named, was first removed from the UK on September 19 under the agreement, which allows for the return of some small boat arrivals to France. However, he was detected by Border Force re-entering the country on October 18, having reportedly left a migrant accommodation facility in Paris and made his way back to the northern French coast.
Despite initial assurances from the Home Office that he would be removed again “as quickly as possible,” sources confirm he is still in the UK. It is unclear whether legal challenges, such as a new asylum claim or a modern slavery allegation, are delaying his deportation.
The case has intensified criticism of the government’s handling of Channel migration. Since the returns agreement came into effect on August 6, 75 migrants have been sent back to France. During the same period, over 11,500 people have crossed the Channel in small boats.
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp condemned the situation, calling the scheme “no deterrent at all” and accusing the government of lacking the resolve to control the border. “This is what happens when a government of human rights lawyers tries to run a border,” he said, calling for the UK to leave the European Convention on Human Rights and fast-track removals.
The Home Office has not confirmed whether the migrant is currently detained, though he is believed to be in an immigration removal centre. In a recent interview, the man claimed he plans to seek asylum again, alleging exploitation by trafficking networks.
The case underscores ongoing concerns about the durability of the UK-France returns agreement, particularly over the risk of repeat crossings by deported migrants.
