UK deports first migrant to France

LONDON: Britain on Thursday returned the first migrant to France under a new 'one-in, one-out' deal, both governments confirmed, as London bids to curb highly contentious cross-Channel small boat arrivals.
The UK interior ministry said it removed the man, who had arrived aboard a small boat in August, on a commercial flight. The French government also confirmed the removal, with a source that London had returned an Indian national.
British interior minister Shabana Mahmood hailed 'an important first step to securing our borders', insisting it sent a message that 'if you enter the UK illegally, we will seek to remove you'.
'The UK will always play its part in helping those genuinely fleeing persecution, but this must be done through safe, legal and managed routes -- not dangerous crossings,' she said.
Under the scheme, the UK can detain and return small boat migrants arriving across the Channel if they are deemed ineligible for asylum, including those who have passed through a 'safe country' to reach UK shores. - AFP