Migrants rescued from Channel: Witness says more than 50 picked up
Written by News on 22/08/2019
Dozens of migrants have been rescued along the south coast, with one witness telling Sky News more than 50 people were picked up.
The witness said the migrants had been rescued off Deal, Dover, Rye, Winchelsea and Hastings.
MP Charlie Elphicke, who represents Dover, said: “Day by day there are more arrivals from France by small boats across the Channel. It’s clear it’s rapidly heading to a summer of chaos.
“Urgent action is needed by the French authorities to stop boats setting off from France before there is another tragedy.”
HM Coastguard said it had been assisting Border Force with a number of incidents off the Kent and Sussex coast this morning.
A spokesperson said: “Rye lifeboats, HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopter from Lydd and a number of Border Force vessels have been sent.
“Sussex Police are also on the scene along with Border Force.
“We are committed to safeguarding life around the seas and coastal areas of this country.”
It comes after almost 40 migrants were detained by border officials after they crossed the English Channel earlier this month.
Two boats holding 40 migrants, including men, women and children, were intercepted in the waters in June.
(c) Sky News 2019: Migrants rescued from Channel: Witness says more than 50 picked up
