An “incident” has happened in the Channel involving a small boat, the Home Office has said.

The government department said it has taken place in French waters, adding: “French authorities are leading the response and investigation.

“We will not be commenting further at this stage.”

Politics live: Farage hits out at Starmer attack

Reports have suggested bodies have been found in the water, but Sky News has yet to confirm this or the number.

A total of 290 people have made the dangerous crossing in the past week, according to statistics from the Home Office.

It brings the total number this year up to 2,006 people.

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