The UK government has announced an independent inquiry into the mass drowning of migrants in the English Channel in November 2021, which claimed at least 27 lives, including a pregnant woman and three children.
Transport Secretary Mark Harper stated that the inquiry would examine the circumstances surrounding the deaths to provide clarity for the victims' families. The decision follows a report by the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) that highlighted deficiencies in the UK's emergency response.
The MAIB report found that the lack of dedicated aircraft for aerial surveillance of the Dover Strait hampered rescue efforts. Chief Inspector Andrew Moll noted that multiple boats attempted to cross that night, and the coastguard faced extreme challenges in tracking their locations and distress levels. The report also cited insufficient staffing at the coastguard base, which may have led to the mistaken belief that those on the stricken boat had been rescued.
The vessel used was deemed 'wholly unsuitable' and overcrowded with 33 migrants. The MAIB recommended improved procedures for surveillance and better information sharing with French authorities. Four people remain missing, and only two survived the sinking.
Mr Harper emphasised the dedication of responders but stressed the need for a thorough investigation. The French authorities declined to participate in the initial probe.
