Fierce opposition to deal aimed at tackling small boats crisis
Five EU countries – Italy, Greece, Spain, Malta, and Cyprus – have raised concerns about a proposed "one in, one out" migration deal between the UK and France.
The deal, reportedly being negotiated by Sir Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron, would involve Britain returning small boat migrants to France in exchange for asylum seekers with UK family ties.
These five nations, often the first point of entry for irregular migrants, fear the agreement could lead to asylum seekers being returned to their shores under existing EU rules.
They have formally objected to the European Commission, arguing against a bilateral deal that could have direct or indirect consequences for other member states.
The proposed UK-France deal is expected to be unveiled during Emmanuel Macron's visit to London in early July, following a significant increase in small boat crossings to the UK in early 2025.
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