Coastguard union calls on Suella Braverman to 'resign in disgrace' after Channel's death

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A union representing coast guard and border force officers has called on Suella Braverman to resign as home secretary following the death of at least four people in the English Channel.

The PCS union's appeal comes after a refugee charity said the government had "blood on its hands" over its failure to deliver safe and legal pathways for asylum seekers to register their claims in the UK.

Downing Street today insisted the allegation was ‘not appropriate’ following the tragic capsizing of a migrant boat in freezing conditions off Kent.

Ms Braverman told the Commons the tragedy was 'the most sobering reminder possible of why we need to end these sea crossings level,” and vowed there would be new legislation to end the g angs criminals.

But Paul O'Connor of the PCS said the Home Secretary was "completely hollow" after she refused to adopt the safe passage policy the union presented the last week to stop perilous boat crossings in shopping malls.

Under the policy, proposed in conjunction with the charity Care4Calais, refugees would be granted visas for travel purposes only, so that they can safely cross the Channel to seek asylum in the UK. If their claim failed, they would be removed.

Mr. O'Connor said: "Today's tragedy, which comes just over twelve months after 32 people tragically lost their lives in the English Channel, was entirely preventable.

"Minister of the Interior, Suella Braverman, says her heartfelt thoughts are with everyone involved. Those words ring quite hollow as she has spent her time as Home Secretary vilifying and demonizing the very people she now feigns sympathy with. She should resign in shame.

"PCS wrote to the Home Secretary last week providing .

"Our solution would allow safe passage for refugees and destroy the business model of smugglers in one fell swoop.

“Instead of seizing this solution, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak decided yesterday to redouble his efforts in demonizing these vulnerable people rather than ensuring their safety. This tragedy should force him to reflect and rethink the position of his government.