A major search and rescue operation has been launched in the Channel following an incident involving a small boat.
Three people have died and 43 people have been rescued from the boat, believed to be carrying migrants, a Government source has said.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency said HM Coastguard was working with the RNLI, Royal Navy, Border Force, French navy and Kent Police to look for the boat, while an air ambulance has also been sent to the scene. HM Coastguard said the incident is ongoing and they have 'no further information.'
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A spokesperson added: "We have sent Dover, Dungeness, Hastings and Ramsgate RNLI lifeboats and Deal, Dungeness and Folkestone coastguard rescue teams, along with the coastguard area commander.
"HM Coastguard helicopters from Lydd and Lee on Solent and one from the French Navy are involved. A fishing vessel in the area is also assisting in the rescue. South East Coast Ambulance and Kent Police are working with us.
"HM Coastguard will continue to safeguard life around the seas and coastal areas of the UK, working with search and rescue resources in the area. If a vessel needs search and rescue assistance, HM Coastguard will continue to respond to all those in need."
Home Secretary Suella Braverman said: "I am aware of a distressing incident in the Channel this morning and I am being kept constantly updated while agencies respond and urgently establish the full facts. My heartfelt thoughts are with all those involved."
A UK Government spokesman said: "We are aware of an incident in UK waters and all relevant agencies are supporting a co-ordinated response. Further details will be provided in due course."
A South East Coast Ambulance Service spokesman said: "South East Coast Ambulance Service was called by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency following reports of an incident in the channel at about 3.40am on Wednesday, 14 December.
"We have sent resources to Dover in support of the rescue efforts being undertaken by the Coastguard. As this is an ongoing incident, we have no further updates at this time."
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