French coastguard rescues 106 migrants from broken-down boat in English Channel
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Apr 27
French coastguard rescues 106 migrants from broken-down boat in English Channel
14 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Apr 27
The migrants were taken to Calais after their vessel broke down near Wimereux, with one woman airlifted after losing consciousness. Six others were rescued separately, bringing the total to 119.
This rescue follows a new £662m UK-France deal aimed at preventing Channel crossings, including riot-trained police on French beaches and increased enforcement funding.
Between 1 January and 22 April 2026, 6,077 people crossed the Channel by small boat, a 37% decrease from the previous year, highlighting ongoing migration challenges despite new measures.
With crossings continuing, how will the UK-France deal prove it is worth the cost?
As Middle East conflicts worsen, can any enforcement deal truly stop refugee flows?
Does the new deportation plan risk violating international law by ignoring asylum rights?
What happens if France fails to meet the 'payment by results' targets in the deal?
Are violent smuggling gangs the real financial winners of this new border deal?