LONDON — Britain on Thursday returned the first migrant to France under a new “one-in, one-out” deal, both governments confirmed, as London bids to curb highly contentious cross-Channel small boat arrivals.

The U.K. interior ministry said it removed the man, who had arrived aboard a small boat in August, on a commercial flight.

The French government also confirmed the removal, with a source telling AFP that London had returned an Indian national.

British interior minister Shabana Mahmood hailed “an important first step to securing our borders,” insisting it sent a message that “if you enter the U.K. illegally, we will seek to remove you.”

“The U.K. will always play its part in helping those genuinely fleeing persecution, but this must be done through safe, legal and managed routes — no

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