Two migrants die crossing Channel as 100-strong makeshift boat attempts to reach Britain
At least 25 migrants have died this year crossing the Channel. UK-France pact in force as 6,752 crossings have occurred since August 6; about 32,000 arrivals by small boats this year.
Two migrants died overnight south of the beaches of Neufchatel-Hardelot in Calais after about 100 people were packed into a makeshift boat attempting to cross the English Channel to Britain, with around 60 rescued.
The deaths bring the year’s Channel fatalities to at least 25, while authorities say roughly 60 people are being cared for following the incident. Since January, about 32,000 migrants have arrived in Britain by small boats.
Under Labour’s one in, one out deal, the UK can return migrants after arrival if they are deemed ineligible for asylum, including those who have passed through a safe country to reach UK shores. In return, London will accept an equal number of migrants from France who are likely to have their asylum claims granted. The first migrants from France under Labour’s deal arrived in the UK on Thursday; a family of three, including a small child, came to Britain after successfully completing the online application process, the Home Office said.
So far, four migrants have been sent back to France under the deal — Indian national, Eritrean, Iranian and Afghan. Since the treaty came into force on August 6, 6,752 small boat migrants have crossed the Channel and reached Britain. A Home Office spokesperson said the deal is historic and a first step, and that authorities will continue to detain and remove those who arrive by small boat. Officials also said they will work with France to operate a legal route for an equal number of eligible migrants to come to the UK subject to security checks.
Across Calais, aid groups and volunteers continue to assist destitute migrants living rough in woodland pockets and temporary shelters near the waterfront. Red Cross clinics treat illnesses such as diphtheria and tuberculosis, while the Catholic Church has opened shower blocks in shelters. Notices in dozens of languages offer guidance on how to access English toilets, human rights lawyers, and winter support. Volunteers deliver water barrels for laundry, and charity tents line the quay and surrounding streets as the city braces for colder weather.
This year’s total of 32,188 migrants reaching Britain by small boat marks a 28% increase from the same point last year, though the year’s tally has for the first time dipped slightly below the record levels seen in 2022, which exceeded 45,000.