Judge Orders UK to Return Trafficking Victim Sent to France

The 'one in, one out' policy aims to deter illegal Channel crossings by facilitating the removal of individuals arriving in small boats in exchange for admitting a comparable number through legal routes. While the government claims this has reduced crossings by over 40% year-on-year, recent arrivals and fatalities highlight ongoing risks.

The judge, Mr Justice Sheldon, stated that the quashed policy would be treated as if it never existed. The asylum seeker ordered for return is a Sudanese national and torture survivor, one of five who initiated legal action against the policy change. His removal to France occurred on November 27, 2025, and reasonable grounds have been established for his victim of trafficking status.

A second asylum seeker involved in the legal challenge, also sent to France, will have his trafficking case reconsidered there, with a potential return to the UK contingent on the outcome. Both the Home Office and the asylum seekers have been granted permission to appeal aspects of the judgment.

Legal representatives for the asylum seekers welcomed the decision, emphasizing its importance for vulnerable victims of trafficking and for upholding the rule of law. They expressed hope that the ruling would enable a wider group of individuals unlawfully removed to France under the treaty to seek justice and potentially return to the UK. The Home Office is reportedly reviewing the judgment and considering its appeal options.