Channel migrants: Fewer than half of boats stopped by French

In the first 10 months of 2019 nearly 1,500 people have successfully crossed the English Channel to reach the UK illegally.

The French authorities say they have intercepted just over 1,000.

Experts on the UK side of the water are now asking if more could be done to prevent people risking their lives by crossing one of the world's busiest sea routes in small boats.

Of the 237 boats which were intercepted in the first 10 months of this year, 99 were stopped by the French authorities.

A French MP has claimed up to 90% of boats were prevented from even setting off.

In October more than 70 people made the journey successfully - mainly via Kent - despite the introduction of an "enhanced action plan" on both sides of the Channel.

Investigation by Colin Campbell, BBC South East Special Correspondent