BASW comments on the Essex lorry deaths

This is a truly shocking human tragedy and our thoughts are with those who have lost their lives in what must have been unimaginable conditions.

These people may be victims of trafficking. It is a desperate indication of the crisis in migration of all kinds across Europe and the world.

We need an urgent and honest conversation on what lies behind such tragedy, with priority action to protect and support people who are at risk.

We also send our thoughts and support to our colleagues in the public services who will be working alongside emergency services and facing the difficult tasks such situations involve.