The issue has become a huge political problem for the Conservative government, which has promised to bring down illegal immigration and break the smuggling gangs that carry out the crossings.

In total, more than 45,000 people made the dangerous small-boat crossing of one of the world's busiest shipping lanes last year, compared with more than 28,000 in 2021.

Four people died last month when a small boat packed with migrants capsized in freezing temperatures in the Channel.