The governments of the United Kingdom and France are continuing discussions on a new agreement to tackle small boat crossings across the English Channel. The talks come as migration numbers remain high, putting pressure on authorities to find effective solutions.
In 2025 alone, more than 41,000 migrants arrived in the UK by small boats, showing a steady rise over the past three years. This has increased pressure on Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood to reduce the number of crossings.
Reports suggest that the UK is pushing for a new deal that includes performance-based conditions. This means funding given to France could depend on how many boats are intercepted before reaching British waters.
The ongoing talks build on a previous agreement signed in 2025, known as the “one-in-one-out” deal. Under this arrangement, the UK can return some migrants who arrive by boat to France, while accepting an equal number of migrants from France who have not attempted the journey.
So far, the scheme has seen over 300 migrants returned to France and more than 360 accepted into the UK. While the numbers are modest, officials say the deal is part of a broader effort to manage migration more effectively.
Meanwhile, political pressure is growing within the UK. Nigel Farage has criticized the ongoing negotiations, arguing that such agreements will not stop crossings. He has suggested that the UK should leave the European Convention on Human Rights to take stronger action.
Farage also proposed that the Royal Navy could be used to return migrant boats to France, although such measures would likely face legal and political challenges.
As discussions continue, both the UK and France remain focused on finding a long-term solution to reduce dangerous Channel crossings and improve border control cooperation.