The recent restart of Channel crossings comes after a significant pause lasting nearly a month. This period has drawn attention to the ongoing issues surrounding small boat migrations to the UK.
Statistics on Channel Crossings
According to government figures, 39,292 individuals have successfully crossed the Channel in small boats in 2023 alone. This number approaches the previous year’s total of 45,774, marking it as the second-highest annual record since data collection began in 2018.
- Total Channel crossings in 2023: 39,292
- Total Channel crossings in 2022: 45,774
- Total crossings since 2018: over 187,000
Government Response to Migrant Crossings
The UK government has intensified its campaign against small boat crossings, implementing stricter measures in recent months. However, officials believe these initiatives may not yield immediate results.
Key Statements from Officials
At the Labour Party conference, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer committed to combating people smuggling operations. He aims to significantly reduce crossing numbers by the year 2029.
Additionally, Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy engaged with European ministers to reform the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). The goal is to simplify the process for deporting illegal migrants.
Changes to Asylum Policy
In November, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood outlined significant changes to the asylum process. These updates include granting refugee status on a temporary basis, subjecting it to review every 30 months. Refugees may be returned to their home countries if deemed safe.
One-in-One-Out Arrangement
Since August, a “one in, one out” pilot scheme has been operational between the UK and France. Under this agreement:
- For each migrant returned to France, another migrant with a strong asylum case is allowed entry into the UK.
As of now, a total of 153 individuals have been returned to France under this arrangement as of November 27, 2025.
The complexity of managing Channel crossings continues to challenge the UK government. Ongoing measures and reforms may shape the future of migration patterns across the Channel.
