Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is already facing fierce backlash over his proposed “one in, one out” migrant deal and the criticism is coming fast from both sides of the Channel.
Just hours into French President Emmanuel Macron’s high-profile state visit to the UK, former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe blasted Starmer’s plan as “naive,” warning it could backfire and leave Britain even more vulnerable to illegal crossings.
The core of Starmer’s proposal? For every migrant Britain takes in legally, one will be sent out. But critics say it’s more political posturing than practical policy.
“You can’t just trade people like currency,” Widdecombe said. “This isn’t a game of numbers it’s national security, and lives are at stake.”
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Meanwhile, Macron struck a more diplomatic tone during his welcome speech, standing alongside Starmer to declare that France and the UK share a “joint responsibility” in dealing with rising levels of irregular migration.
“In this unstable world, hope for a better life elsewhere is legitimate,” Macron said. “But we cannot allow our countries’ rules to be flouted or let criminal networks exploit desperate people.”
The French leader’s visit comes at a critical time as both nations face mounting pressure to tackle cross-Channel migration, particularly after a recent surge in small boat arrivals despite billions spent on border enforcement.
Behind closed doors, the two leaders are expected to discuss a possible Franco-British migration pact, which could include increased patrols, intelligence-sharing, and potential housing swaps for asylum applicants though details remain tightly guarded.
But with Starmer’s “one in, one out” idea already under fire, many wonder if this new Labour government is ready for the diplomatic minefield ahead.
“He’s playing with fire,” one former diplomat told reporters. “Macron may be smiling for the cameras, but Paris won’t shoulder Britain’s burden without a serious deal and fast.”
As the state visit unfolds, the spotlight is firmly on Downing Street. Starmer promised a “fresh start.” But if this migrant deal falls apart, he may find himself in hot water at home and abroad.
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