An analysis cited by reports says the average number of migrants travelling on small boats across the English Channel has risen over the past five years, reaching a record high under the current Labour government. The reporting indicates that, so far this year, 219 vessels have successfully crossed the Channel, carrying a total of 14,561 migrants. It also states that the average number of people on each vessel has more than doubled over the five-year period, reaching an average of 66 migrants per boat.
The reports add that people smugglers are increasingly using larger-capacity craft described as “mega-dinghies,” suggesting a shift in tactics. Together, the figures point to both higher passenger loads and a trend toward changes in vessel use by smuggling networks.
The claims are based on the analysis described in the sources and focus on cross-Channel crossings that are assessed as having successfully reached the UK, with totals presented for the year to date.
