The UK has started detaining illegal immigrants under the new UK-France small boats treaty. On 6 August, the first group arriving via small boat was held in immigration centres and will be returned to France.
The UK will refer cases within 3 days, and France has 14 days to respond. Meanwhile, a reciprocal route now lets eligible migrants apply to enter the UK legally, only after passing strict ID and security checks.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper says the move aims to break criminal smuggling networks and stop risky crossings. A warning campaign targeting migrants in Northern France is also launching soon. It’s all part of the UK’s tough Plan for Change.
