Rescue operation after migrant boat incident as many feared dead 

Rescue teams are searching for people feared to have been involved in a small boat sinking. It’s believed the small migrant boat ran into difficulties in the early hours in the English Channel. 

The BBC reports they believe there have been deaths but authorities have not confirmed them. 

The search and rescue operation was launched in UK waters in freezing conditions after reports came in at about 03:40 GMT. 

Suella Braverman said: “I am aware of a distressing incident in the Channel this morning and I am being kept constantly updated while agencies respond and urgently establish the full facts.”

She said her “heartfelt thoughts” were with those involved. 

The UK coastguard, the French Navy and an air ambulance were all sent to help with the rescue operation. 

A fishing boat in the area and coastguard helicopters from Lydd and Lee on Solent were also involved. 

South East Coast Ambulance Service sent crews to Dover to help with the rescue operation. 

Temperatures overnight dropped to 1C in Dover with it likely to have been even colder out at the sea. A yellow weather warning for ice was in place across Kent at the time.