Would tougher prevention of Channel migrant boats save more lives?

Over 5,000 migrants have crossed the Channel in small boats this year, with recent tragedies including four deaths when a boat capsized and earlier incidents claiming around 30 lives. The UK government has leased new catamarans for interceptions, extended payments to France for beach patrols, and introduced facial recognition drones, yet crossings continue amid claims of over 42,000 prevented attempts. Debate centres on whether stronger deterrence reduces dangerous voyages or if current policies and rescue obligations increase risks by encouraging more attempts.