CHARITIES issued fresh calls today for ministers to open safe routes for refugees to reach Britain after the “entirely preventable” death of a Sudanese teenager in Calais. 

The 16-year-old boy reportedly died on Tuesday while trying to board a lorry bound for Britain. 

At least three people have died so far this year on roads or in the Channel while attempting to reach Britain’s shores, reports suggest, and last October, a Kurdish-Iranian family, including three children, died when their boat sank at sea. 

The Independent reported today that the boy was run over by the lorry while trying to climb onto it. 

CCTV indicated that the driver was unaware of the accident and did not stop. 

Refugee-rights charities said that the deaths were avoidable. 

“It’s heartbreaking to hear about the death of a 16-year-old boy, who was most likely just wanting to start a new life in the UK,” said Refugee Action chief executive Tim Naor Hilton. 

“These Channel tragedies are avoidable. Refugees should not have to risk their lives to reach safety in the UK, but the government cares more about keeping people out, rather than keep people safe.  

“Ministers need to tear up their cruel, unworkable and unlawful anti-refugee Bill, which will not stop people risking their lives trying to reach the UK. In its place, they must create a system that’s effective, just and compassionate.” 

Rather than heeding calls to open safe and legal routes to Britain amid a surge in small-boat crossings, ministers have proposed new legislation that would criminalise asylum-seekers who enter the country via irregular routes. 

Campaigners warn that the Nationality & Borders Bill will make journeys more dangerous. 

Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants interim chief Minnie Rahman said: “It’s heartbreaking to hear that another child has died during his attempt to seek safety in the UK. 

“This tragedy was entirely preventable and is a direct consequence of a government that has failed to take the steps needed to end dangerous Channel journeys. 

“It's time the government took the practical action we know is needed to prevent future loss of life and introduced safe regulated means of travel for those seeking asylum here.”