Four migrants including child die in English Channel crossing attempt

Four migrants, including a two-year-old child, have died while attempting to cross the English Channel, according to French authorities.

The child was "trampled to death in a boat", according to French interior minister Bruno Retailleau, who said it was a "terrible tragedy" and people smugglers "have the blood of these people on their hands".

The AFP news agency reported the migrant boat, which was heading towards the UK, called for assistance and rescuers picked up 14 people on board, including the child.

The remaining passengers on the boat continued their journey.