737 Migrants Cross Channel in a Day, Ending 7-Year Record Lull
More than 700 migrants crossed the Channel in small boats, ending a four-week pause as Channel crossings hit record levels despite UK crackdowns.
According to the latest Home Office figures, more than 700 migrants crossed the Channel in small boats on Saturday, after a four-week gap in crossings.
The arrival of 737 migrants in 11 boats at Dover ended the longest period without any small boat crossings in seven years.
This brings the total number of people who have crossed the Channel so far this year to 40,029, surpassing the 2024 full-year figure of 36,816.
The last reported arrivals before Saturday were on November 14, marking the longest uninterrupted period since 2018.
December is typically a quiet month for crossings due to bad weather, and this is believed to be the reason for the lull.
In recent months, the UK government has intensified its efforts to tackle small boat crossings, but these measures are not expected to have an immediate impact.
Software Services
 |
Start your own gaming platform for just $3,000 |
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy met with ministers from other European countries last week to discuss reforms to the European Convention on Human Rights, which would make it easier to deport illegal migrants.
In November, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced changes to asylum rules, under which refugee status in the UK will be temporary and subject to review every 30 months.
Under these changes, if a refugee's country is deemed safe, they will be sent home.
The UK government's "one in, one out" agreement with France began in August, and by November 27, 2025, 153 people had been returned under the scheme.
A Home Office spokesperson previously said that "the number of small boat crossings is unacceptable and the British people deserve better". He further added, "This government is taking action. We have removed approximately 50,000 people who were here illegally, and our historic agreement with the French means that those who arrive in small boats are now being sent back."
Thank you for reading this content.
What's Your Reaction?
Like
1
Dislike
0
Love
0
Funny
0
Angry
0
Sad
0
Wow
0
