The deal could see the UK returning some small boat migrants to France, with France sending other asylum seekers to the UK in return.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will host French President Emmanuel Macron for lunch at Downing Street on the second day of a state visit on Wednesday, with the pair poised to discuss subjects like immigration and Ukraine.

French President Emmanuel Macron attended yet another lavish banquet Wednesday evening in London, this one hosted by London Lord Mayor Alderman Alastair King.

France's defence minister hits out at Russia’s ceasefire terms, calling Moscow’s demands "unrealistic" and "unacceptable." As the West weighs fresh military support, Paris draws a hard line - no peace deal that weakens Ukraine’s sovereignty will fly.

The French president and his wife Brigitte were earlier greeted by Prince William and Catherine as they landed in the UK for a three-day trip.