Migrants rescued from burning boat in English Channel after refusing earlier aid

French and British authorities rescued over 150 migrants from a distressed boat in the English Channel on Tuesday after its engine caught fire. The incident occurred less than a day after U.K. Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated his government would be "relentless" in curbing small-boat crossings.

The vessel departed France on Monday night. During the overnight journey, five individuals accepted assistance from French rescue crews, but the majority of passengers refused, continuing their attempt to reach Britain. French maritime authorities reported on Tuesday morning that the boat's engine "caught fire" and its structure "deteriorated very rapidly," prompting an immediate mayday call. All 157 people aboard were brought to safety and returned to Boulogne-sur-Mer, France.

The French maritime prefecture noted that migrants determined to reach the United Kingdom often refuse assistance unless facing "situations of extreme urgency." No fatalities were reported.

A U.K. government spokesperson commented that the incident "underlines the terrible dangers of small boat crossings" and affirmed Britain's commitment to "continue to work relentlessly with the French and our partners overseas to prevent these perilous journeys."

Burnham had visited Dover on Monday, highlighting his government's progress in addressing irregular migration. He pointed to a doubling of enforcement officers targeting smuggling gangs on both sides of the Channel, while also advocating for "a system that offers safe routes for people." More than 2,000 migrants have reached Britain by small boat since Burnham took office.