Emmanuel Macron has described the UK-France relationship as a “game changer” following talks with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer focused on the ongoing migrant crisis. The UK is urging France to take firmer action along the northern coast to prevent small boat crossings, while President Macron has called for efforts to reduce the “pull factors” drawing migrants to Britain. The discussions took place ahead of a wider UK-France summit involving senior ministers from both countries.
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Sir Keir welcomed President Macron to Downing Street on Wednesday, calling the meeting “hugely symbolic” of the strength of both nations’ ties. He praised the alignment between the UK and France on key issues such as defence, security, the economy, and international challenges including Ukraine. President Macron echoed this sentiment, expressing hope for deeper collaboration in areas ranging from technology and education to tackling climate change and geopolitical instability.
A central topic of the talks was the Prime Minister’s proposed “one in, one out” agreement to manage migration — returning small boat arrivals to Europe in exchange for accepting asylum seekers with British connections. At a British Museum event celebrating a future cultural exchange between the Bayeux Tapestry and Sutton Hoo treasures, both leaders emphasised the importance of historical ties and cooperation in the face of modern global uncertainty. Meanwhile, Brigitte Macron and Lady Victoria Starmer shared tea and a tour of Downing Street.
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Sir Keir defended the UK’s collaborative approach with France during Prime Minister’s Questions, highlighting a new intelligence unit in Dunkirk and efforts to tighten laws along the French coast. While Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey urged a halt to French funding without stronger enforcement, and Reform UK’s Nigel Farage called for a firmer stance, Macron reassured MPs of his commitment to addressing the crisis “with humanity, solidarity and fairness”. Over 21,000 Channel crossings have been recorded so far in 2025 — the highest number on record for this stage of the year.
