The number of migrants crossing the English Channel in small boats has fallen to its lowest level in six years, with nearly 7,000 arrivals recorded between June and August. This summer's total of 6,949 crossings is the lowest since 2020, and the number of boats arriving in Britain has also reached its lowest point since 2019.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood attributed the decrease to enhanced international cooperation aimed at disrupting smugglers' supply chains for boats, lifebelts, and outboard motors. She also credited a £662 million agreement with France, which funds additional officers on beaches and new interception strategies.
For the year to date, a total of 16,391 migrants have crossed from France to the UK, representing a 43% decrease compared to the same period last year and an 18% reduction compared to 2024. "This Government is committed to restoring order at our border," Mahmood stated. "This work is beginning to bear fruit, with June, July and August recording the lowest number of small-boat crossings in seven years. But we know there is more to do."
August crossings, up to August 30, were down 46% on the previous year, reaching their lowest level since records began in 2018. July saw the fewest crossings since 2019, a 64% decrease from 2025, while June recorded its lowest level since 2019, down 50% year-on-year.
However, the government's efforts have faced criticism. Earlier this month, the Conservatives branded Labour's approach a "complete laughing stock" following an incident on August 10 where a record 230 migrants arrived on a single, large dinghy. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp criticized the situation, stating, "Shabana Mahmood is presiding over a complete and utter farce. She's handing over £660 million of our money to the French, who are pathetically standing around on the beaches while hundreds of migrants embark on massive dinghies."
Philp also questioned the French authorities' ability to prevent the departure of such a large vessel, suggesting it could have been stopped in shallow waters. This criticism comes after an incident last week where a migrant died and three others were injured on a small boat that was allowed to continue its journey to the UK. The 34-year-old Afghan national died after being airlifted to a hospital. Two women were burned and another man was stabbed on the same boat, which carried 72 migrants. Of these, 45 were eventually picked up by a British rescue boat and taken into the care of UK authorities.
These crossings occurred amidst a period of bad weather that had previously prevented successful voyages. The Prime Minister is reportedly eager to continue a "one-in, one-out" scheme with France, intended as a deterrent to illegal crossings. Small-boat crossings are expected to be a significant topic of discussion when Andy Burnham hosts French President Emmanuel Macron in Downing Street.