Reform UK MP Rupert Lowe has sparked controversy after suggesting that fishing crews should not rescue migrants in distress in the English Channel. His comments come after the crew of the scallop boat Arcturus saved more than 30 people from a capsizing dinghy early on Wednesday, with four others losing their lives.
Lowe, the MP for Great Yarmouth, told GB News that rescuing migrants 'encourages more people to make the dangerous crossing' and called for a 'tougher approach' to deter Channel crossings. His remarks have been condemned by opposition MPs and charities, who accused him of 'callousness' and 'ignoring humanitarian obligations'.
Captain Raymond Strachan, who led the rescue, described the scene as 'harrowing', with survivors from Afghanistan, Iraq, Senegal, and India. They told him they had paid £5,000 each to smugglers for the crossing. The crew provided dry clothing and quilts to warm the survivors.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed his 'sorrow' at the tragedy, while a Government spokesman confirmed four deaths and ongoing investigations. The RNLI, Royal Navy, and French authorities were involved in the rescue operation off the Kent coast.
Lowe's comments have drawn criticism from across the political spectrum, with Labour MP Yvette Cooper calling them 'disgraceful' and the RNLI reminding that 'saving lives at sea is a legal and moral duty'. The incident has reignited debate over UK immigration policy and Channel crossings.
