Forget Palestine – when will Starmer recognise Britain?
Spectator (UK)3 days
UK Sees First Arrivals From 'One In, One Out' Migrant Deal
Above: The Home Office's Lunar House immigration reporting centre is pictured in May 2024 in Croydon, England. Image copyright: Mark Kerrison/In Pictures/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-government narrative
This deal shows real leadership on migration. Returning illegal arrivals to France while offering a safe, legal route for genuine applicants, strikes the right balance of compassion and control. This is grown-up diplomacy delivering results, cutting smuggling gangs’ profits and restoring order to Britain's borders.
Left narrative
The U.K.-France deal is nothing more than political theatre. The agreement barely touches Channel crossings, while shutting the door on those fleeing war and persecution. If Labour thinks these performative measures will win over the right-wing they are sadly mistaken — Starmer's government is only legitimizing dangerous anti-migrant sentiment.
Right narrative
The government celebrates as thousands pour into the U.K. illegally while only a handful are sent back. The French aren’t stopping boats, legal challenges stall removals, and Britain looks weak. Instead of posturing abroad, the PM should fix the U.K.'s borders at home. A serious state protects sovereignty, something that Starmer has so far failed to recognize.