Over 3,600 migrants crossed Channel last month

MORE than 3,600 migrants reached Britain across the Channel in July, the highest monthly total this year.

Official figures show 3,699 made the crossing aboard 90 boats over the 31-day period. So far this year, 16,312 migrants have reached UK shores – thousands more than at the same point last year.

The total does not include an unconfirmed number – thought to be at least 500 – who reached Kent yesterday. They were escorted into Ramsgate.

It came amid reports the Home Secretary could announce another multi-million-pound deal with France in a bid to curb Channel crossings.

The latest agreement, which will be Priti Patel’s third during her three years in the role, is expected to be struck this month.

The sum is likely to be higher than the £53 million agreed with Emmanuel Macron’s ministers last autumn, The Times reported. Conservative MP for Dover Natalie Elphicke described it as a ‘shocking waste of taxpayers’ hard-earned money’.

She said: ‘France have a moral and international obligation to protect vulnerable

‘France have a moral obligation’

people, save lives, stop people smugglers and tackle organised crime.

‘They should not need to be paid to do their duty. It is even more ridiculous that we pay them tens of millions of pounds and get so little in return.’

Miss Patel said: ‘The Nationality and Borders Act makes it a criminal offence to knowingly arrive in the UK illegally and we have introduced life sentences for those who facilitate illegal entry into the country.

‘Conservative MPs voted for these measures and are fully aware of the extensive international partnership work with many countries, including France, to tackle the many causes of illegal migration.’