How many people have crossed the English Channel in small boats so far this year?published at 11:41 British Summer Time
Rob England
BBC Verify senior data journalist
As of 10 August, 26,555 people have crossed the English Channel in small boats in 2025, according to official figures, external.
That’s the highest number at this point in the year since records began in 2018.
Since last year’s general election, 49,797 people have been detected making the journey. That number could pass 50,000 when yesterday’s figures are published later today.
A Home Office spokesperson said the crossings were dangerous and undermined the UK’s border security.
The government has pledged to “smash the gangs” behind the illegal crossings and recently launched a “one in, one out” agreement with France.
Under this deal the UK returns small boat arrivals in exchange for accepting asylum seekers from France through a newly created legal route.
You can learn more about the government’s pledges on illegal migration and asylum here.
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