I know that many constituents will feel a great sense of sadness following the tragic loss of life in the Channel during the early hours of this morning. I am glad that the Home Secretary took the time to update Parliament of the situation in a prompt manner.

MPs such as I were eager to press upon the Home Secretary the need to work to ensure that safe and legal routes are open to migrants fleeing war and persecution across the globe. In my question to the Home Secretary, I stressed the need for such routes if we are to be successful in our ambition to break the business model of the people smugglers.

In her response, I was glad to hear these concerns echoed by the Home Secretary who stressed that the UK continues to provide safe and legal routes for asylum seekers. She went on to outline her desire for an asylum system based upon control, fairness and compassion.