It is the highest daily total since current records began in 2018. The previous high was 1,185 on November 11, 2021. Twenty-seven boats were spotted yesterday. The provisional total for crossings so far in 2022 is 22,670. this time last year it was just 12,500. Total crossings in 2021 were 28,526. A controversial deal to send some migrants to Rwanda to process their asylum claims was struck earlier this year by the government. They would not be able to return to the UK and could instead be eligible for a new life in the African nation. However, the first flight was grounded on the runway in June after a legal challenge, and a judicial review of the system’s legality will be heard in September. Refugee advocacy groups, Church of England bishops and other opponents say it is “immoral” and “inhumane”. But the government hopes the plan will prevent people from making the dangerous crossing from France – which has claimed dozens of lives. It says migrants will receive a “generous support package, including up to 5 years of education, accommodation and healthcare upon arrival” in Rwanda.
