UK Set to Begin Talks on Return Hubs

The UK government is set to begin discussions with foreign nations about establishing “return hubs” for failed asylum seekers, as part of a broader strategy to curb the rising number of small boat crossings across the English Channel.

During a visit to Albania on Thursday, Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the government’s intention to explore the use of third countries to process individuals who have been denied asylum in the UK, prior to their deportation.

Speaking to GB News, Starmer stated: “What we are now seeking to do—and are in discussions about—are return hubs. These would allow us to more effectively return individuals who have gone through the UK’s asylum system and have no legal right to remain. If feasible, we intend to facilitate their return through such hubs.”

While government officials declined to name the countries currently being considered for these arrangements, it was confirmed that the topic was not scheduled for formal discussion during Starmer’s meetings in Tirana on Thursday.

The announcement comes as the number of people arriving in the UK via small boats surpassed 12,000 for the year, setting 2025 on track to break previous records for Channel crossings. Starmer acknowledged that the creation of return hubs alone would not resolve the crisis, but said they could serve as part of a multi-pronged approach.

“This won’t be a silver bullet,” he said. “But alongside intensified efforts to dismantle smuggling networks and ensure swift removals of those without the right to stay, return hubs could help us crack down on this exploitative trade and stop people risking their lives in the Channel.”

The proposed return hubs would specifically focus on individuals who have exhausted all legal options to remain in the UK and are seen as obstructing deportation, often by losing documentation or initiating new claims, such as forming family ties. Relocating such individuals to third countries is intended to limit their ability to further delay deportation proceedings and reduce incentives for making perilous crossings.

Unlike the previous government’s Rwanda scheme, which faced significant legal and political challenges, this initiative would apply only to individuals who have already failed in their asylum claims and completed all appeal processes.

Negotiations with potential host countries are expected to unfold over the coming months. Italy currently operates a similar arrangement with Albania, whereby failed asylum seekers are transferred to Albania while awaiting removal. However, that scheme has encountered legal delays.

In addition to migration-related discussions, Prime Minister Starmer is expected to announce enhanced cooperation with Albania on tackling illegal migration and organized crime. This includes plans aimed at preventing returned migrants from attempting to re-enter the UK—a challenge often referred to as the “revolving door” problem.

Migration is also expected to be a key topic at the European Political Community summit in Tirana on Friday, alongside broader discussions on European defense and support for Ukraine.