At least 12 people have died after a migrant dinghy capsized in the English Channel.
Migrants are brought back to shore after another disaster in the Channel (Image: PA)
At least 12 people have died after a migrant dinghy carrying dozens of people capsized in the English Channel.
The French authorities launched a huge rescue operation, scrambling coastguard ships and air ambulances to the wreckage off the coast of Le Portel.
Rescue vessels are understood to have taken people back to Boulogne-sur-Mer.
Some 53 survivors were taken ashore.
France’s Interior Minister, Gerald Darmanin said: “Terrible shipwreck in Pas-de-Calais, off Wimereux. The provisional toll stands at 12 dead, two missing and several injured.
“All government services are mobilised to find the missing and take care of the victims. I am on my way to visit the elected officials and the emergency services.”
A French emergency services spokesman said: “The sinking of a boat overcrowded with around 70 migrants on board took place early on Tuesday.
“A Navy helicopter is bringing in victims who are in a critical condition. Some appear to have been suffocated. Around 10 people have been reported dead.”
Migrants are brought back to shore after another disaster in the Channel (Image: PA)
Migrants are brought back to shore after another disaster in the Channel (Image: PA)
Gérald Darmanin, the French interior minister, is said to be on his way to the scene along with the state prefect of Pas-de-Calais.
Some 25 people have died attempting to cross the English Channel so far this year.
A Maritime and Coastguard Agency spokesperson said: “HM Coastguard received a report of a small boat in difficulty in the English Channel, in French waters north of Boulogne, at about 6.50am on 3 September.
“The response was coordinated by French authorities. Assistance offered by HM Coastguard was not required.”
Enver Solomon, CEO of the Refugee Council, said: “We are heartbroken by the tragic deaths in the latest incident in the Channel. Our thoughts and sympathies are with the victims and their loved ones.
“We are grateful to all those involved in the search and rescue operations, who work tirelessly to save lives under extremely difficult circumstances.
“The number of deaths in the Channel this year has been shockingly high. It is a devastating trend that shows the urgent need for a comprehensive and multi-pronged approach to reduce dangerous Channel crossings.
“Enforcement alone is not the solution. Heightened security and policing measures on the French coast have led to increasingly perilous crossings, launching from more dangerous locations and in flimsy, overcrowded vessels.
“In addition to taking action against the criminal gangs themselves, the Government must develop a plan to improve and expand safe routes for those seeking safety.
“People risk their lives out of desperation, fleeing violence and persecution in countries like Afghanistan, Syria and Sudan in search of safety.
“We must create effective and humane pathways for those seeking refuge to reduce the need for dangerous crossings and prevent further tragedies.
“We stand ready to work constructively with the Government to build a fair, orderly and compassionate asylum system that prioritises human life and dignity.”
