Tories say the deal to close Sangatte has failed

Hundreds of people are said to have gathered at a makeshift camp near the site of the Sangatte refugee centre, which was closed in 2002.

Shadow Home Secretary David Davis said it signalled the government had not got a grip on illegal immigration.

The Home Office rejected any comparison between the new camp and Sangatte.

It said in a statement: "This is not a second Sangatte, which was an official camp providing shelter, food and facilities to up to 1,500 people while they attempted to gain illegal entry into the UK.

Shanty town

"Since the closure of Sangatte there have frequently been small numbers of people who have slept rough while trying to jump on the back of lorries bound for the UK.

The Home Office said it was working with French authorities to enforce controls and asylum claims had fallen by 60%.

Mr Davis had said evidence a shanty town near the former camp was being used as a base by people trying to get into the UK showed the deal to shut Sangatte had failed.

The Sangatte refugee camp in northern France closed in December 2002 after a deal was struck between the British and French governments.

The controversial camp was attacked by British politicians as a haven for people-smugglers and a base for illegal entry into the UK.