Record number of migrants cross the Channel to UK: 430 in one day | Abroad

Since early 2020, more and more illegal migrants have been crossing the Channel, one of the world’s busiest shipping routes. Last year there were about 8500 migrants. British media report that by 2021 almost 8,000 migrants have already made the perilous journey.

The migrants often travel in small inflatable boats, which in most cases are also overcrowded. In the summer period, the number of boats usually increases due to the better weather conditions. Most vessels depart from France.

The British government has plans to reform the asylum seekers’ system. A bill will increase the maximum sentence for illegal migrants from six months to four years. For people smugglers, that will be lifelong. Parliament still has to approve the law.

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