How many people cross the Channel in small boats and how many claim asylum?

More than 50 people have died trying to cross the English Channel in 2024.

The UN’s International Organization for Migration wants government to create more safe and legal ways for migrants to travel to the UK, to avoid these “preventable” deaths.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has promised he will take tougher measures to “smash” the gangs that smuggle people to the UK.