Great Britain
Number of boat migrants on the English Channel will increase again in 2024
Almost 37,000 people crossed the English Channel in small boats last year – a quarter more than the previous year. The attempt ended fatally for a record number.
The number of boat migrants on the English Channel increased again in 2024. This is evident from figures from the British government. At the same time, it was the deadliest year on the Strait, as the British news agency PA reported.
According to this, around 36,800 people crossed the sea from France to England in small boats in 2024. That’s a quarter more than last year, when around 29,400 made the dangerous journey. Nevertheless, the number was lower than in the record year of 2022, when around 45,700 people came to the UK this way.
London is relying on closer cooperation with Germany
Fifty-three people died during the dangerous crossing, the PA report said, citing French coastguard figures – more than ever before in a calendar year.
The new Labor government under Prime Minister Keir Starmer has shelved plans by the previous conservative government to send the newcomers to Rwanda with no prospect of return. However, she wants to take stronger action against criminal smuggling gangs.
Among other things, London is relying on closer cooperation with Germany, from where the smugglers sometimes operate. During raids in the Federal Republic in recent years, large amounts of cash and firearms were discovered alongside numerous inflatable boats and motors.
dpa
Source: Stern
I have been working in the news industry for over 6 years, first as a reporter and now as an editor. I have covered politics extensively, and my work has appeared in major newspapers and online news outlets around the world. In addition to my writing, I also contribute regularly to 24 Hours World.
