Several migrants including child die in Channel crossing attempt

Several migrants, including a child, have died while attempting to cross the English Channel, according to the French authorities.

Interior minister Bruno Retailleau said the child was “trampled to death in a boat”, saying it was a “terrible tragedy” and people smugglers “have the blood of these people on their hands”.

According to local newspaper La Voix du Nord, at least four migrants died – including a young child – in two separate incidents.

A local official is due to give a press conference in Calais later.