At least five migrants have died after their small boat got into difficulties off the French coast overnight.

The incident happened off Wimereux beach near Boulogne before 2am.

A number of other migrants were rescued. At least one is critically ill in hospital.

The incident happened just after the Prime Minister's flagship Rwanda bill was passed in Parliament.

Five migrants lost their lives off the French coast (stock pic)

This morning, another five small migrant boats are attempting to make the illegal crossing from France, GB News can reveal.

One of the boats left a beach near Calais at first light this morning and is currently being escorted by a French border force vessel, as it makes its way towards UK waters.

GB News can also reveal that another three small boats have taken to the water further down the French coast, near Boulogne.