The Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, has disclosed that the government’s “one in, one out” policy for returning small boat migrants to France is costing approximately £56,000 per individual. The revelation came during a parliamentary session where Mahmood was questioned about the financial implications and overall value of the initiative.

Since the scheme's inception, more than 1,400 migrants have been repatriated across the English Channel under this arrangement. Despite these figures, Mahmood acknowledged that the total number of returns remains “relatively small” compared to the volume of crossings attempted.

Mahmood defended the costs by comparing them to the expenses involved in accommodating migrants. She stated that the cost per return is “still cheaper, or just about the same as supporting someone in a hotel for a year,” suggesting the program could represent a fiscally viable alternative to long-term lodging provisions.

The pilot scheme is scheduled to continue through October, but its future remains uncertain as the government evaluates its effectiveness and financial sustainability. Further discussions are expected regarding whether the approach will be extended, modified, or replaced by other measures to manage Channel crossings and irregular migration.