At least 27 people, including a pregnant woman and three children, died when a boat sank during their attempt to cross the Channel. The inquiry will examine the circumstances surrounding the deaths and provide clarity for the victims' families.
The decision to launch the inquiry follows an investigation into the incident by the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB), which made recommendations for improving the emergency response and surveillance in the Dover Strait.
The MAIB report highlighted challenges faced by the coastguard in understanding and responding to multiple distress calls from migrant boats attempting the crossing.
The report also emphasized the need for effective surveillance when aviation assets are unavailable and called for improved information sharing with French authorities during migrant crossings. Four people are still missing from the incident, with only two survivors.