Over 50 Migrants Rescued from English Channel

The French coastguard has rescued 51 migrants attempting to cross the English Channel after their boat's engine failed off the coast of Audresselles. Tragically, several bodies have been recovered, with reports of four deceased individuals found in the waters near Calais and Dover, though their identities and potential links to migration are still under investigation. Despite the ongoing dangers, over 31,500 migrants have crossed the Channel in small boats this year, an 18% increase from last year but a decrease from the record high in 2022. Newly appointed shadow home secretary Chris Philp criticized the government’s handling of the situation, amid calls for improved border policing. The International Organisation for Migration has reported 50 migrant deaths linked to crossing attempts this year, highlighting the perilous nature of these journeys. The UK Home Office noted that 263 individuals made the crossing in just one day, underscoring the ongoing migration crisis.