First ‘child’ migrants who claim to be aged between 14 and 17 arrive in UK from Calais Jungle … sparking row over their true age

PICTURES of the first migrant children arriving in the UK from the Calais Jungle camp have sparked debate over their ages.

Many of the lads, who all claim to be under 18, sported noticeable facial hair and matched the border officials escorting them for size.

The 14 boys — believed to be from Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria and Sudan — will be reunited with relatives already living in Britain.

But scores on social media suggested they are older than the 14 to 17 range given by the Home Office.

Iain McGregor wrote: “Does the British Foreign Office think we are stupid? I was expecting kids under the age of 16, not over the age of 21.”

David Moore said: “Lie about your age and you get a ride into the land of milk and honey. Don’t think they will be asked for ID at the pub.”

It comes after the Home Secretary Amber Rudd announced last week she wanted to see as many children as possible brought to the UK before the camp closes.

Some of the boys waved and gave the thumbs up yesterday as they were escorted to the Home Office building in Croydon, South London.

They were later seen getting into two minibuses and being driven to secure temporary accommodation until their applications are finalised.

Iemal Khan, 14, was seen embracing brother Asif, 25, at the centre.

They had not seen each other since they lived in war-torn Afghanistan 11 years ago.

Chef Asif, of Hounslow, West London, said: “It was amazing to hug and kiss him. It has been such a long time. I say a big thanks to the UK Government.”

Lawyers from the charity Citizens UK Safe Passage said Iemal and the other boys will not be allowed home with their relatives until due diligence has been carried out.

A Home Office spokeswoman said: “The transfer process is not straightforward. We need to make sure the essential checks have been made for their safety and the safety of others.”

Scores more children are expected to arrive from the Jungle this week.

Nearly 180 kids living unaccompanied at the camp in Calais have a right to live in the UK with family already here.

Stephen Hale, chief executive of the charity Refugee Action, said: "It's fantastic news that, at last, vulnerable children in Calais will be reunited with their families in Britain.

"These children must have the support they need to rebuild their lives when they arrive."