News · 9 April 2026

Channel crossings hit 5,000 despite £16.2M UK-France deal

More than 5,000 people have crossed the English Channel in small boats so far in 2026, amid a surge in arrivals. Around 325 migrants reached UK shores on Wednesday alone. Two people died during a recent crossing attempt near Calais. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood extended the UK-France border patrol deal by two months, with the UK paying France £16.2 million.

By BriefTea Editorial · 9 April 2026 at 5:05

Reported by Daily Express · How we write briefs

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