Summary
The UK and France are close to reaching a new deal to prevent migrants from crossing the English Channel in small boats. The proposed agreement involves France taking back some migrants who cannot prove family ties to the UK, while the UK would accept an equal number from France who can prove such ties.
Key Facts
- The agreement aims to stop dangerous boat crossings by migrants between France and the UK.
- Over 20,000 people have crossed the Channel this year in small boats.
- France would take back migrants who cannot prove a family connection to the UK.
- For each person France takes back, the UK would accept one migrant from France with family connections in the UK.
- Initially, the UK plans to send approximately 50 migrants a week back to France.
- If successful, the plan may expand beyond the initial 2,600-person limit per year.
- Both countries have accused each other of contributing to the migrant influx.
- France's President visited London for negotiations as the first European state visit since Brexit.
