Labour blames weather for record migrant crossings

HOME Secretary Yvette Cooper yesterday blamed a record number of Channel crossings on calmer seas.

- By Michael Knowles Home Affairs Editor

Border security was "dependent on the weather" when people smugglers launch more boats packed with dozens of asylum seekers.

More than 6,600 migrants have crossed the Channel this year, up 31% on last year.

Officials believe there have been far more "red days" when crossings are likely because conditions are calmer - than in previous years.

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Ms Cooper and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer are to use a two-day summit on migration, starting today, to push for more international co-operation on tackling supply routes, criminal finances and online adverts for dangerous journeys.