Migrants arrive in Britain in droves

HUNDREDS of migrants crossed the Channel from France to Britain in small boats at the weekend, the UK Ministry of Defence said yesterday, following an 11-day hiatus in the arrivals.

The resumption of journeys, halted due to strong winds and choppy seas, comes weeks after Britain announced contentious proposals to send those who cross the Channel thousands of kilometres away to Rwanda.

The plans have come as the number of migrants has risen dramatically. The arrival of 254 people mean nearly 7 000 have reached the UK so far this year, more than three times the number recorded by this time last year.

More migrants were seen being brought into the port of Dover yesterday, aboard lifeboats and Border Force vessels after being picked up in the Channel. The journeys, in unsuitable and dangerous craft have increased dramatically – with 28526 registered last year.