Two dead and one missing after Channel crossing attempt

Insights

• A dinghy in distress off Gravelines, northern France, was rescued by the French boat Ridens; eight people were taken aboard and two were later pronounced dead.
• A third person received urgent medical attention and a French navy helicopter monitored the scene.
• The deaths occurred hours after the UK and France agreed an interim £16.2m migration deal that will run until May.
• French authorities are leading the response and investigation while the UK said it will continue joint efforts to prevent dangerous crossings.
• Aid groups called for safe legal routes, saying current border policies push asylum seekers into perilous journeys.