The UK Home Office has announced plans to introduce a new criminal offence aimed at endangering lives during small boat crossings in the English Channel.

The proposed legislation would carry a penalty of up to five years in prison for those found guilty of coercing or intimidating passengers to board unsafe vessels, or refusing to be rescued outside British waters.

The government also plans to give border officials the power to seize migrants' phones in the search for intelligence on people smuggling operations.

A separate offence would target individuals involved in the preparation of smuggling activities, such as purchasing boat parts, with up to 14 years in jail for those convicted.

These measures are part of a wider strategy to dismantle people smuggling gangs, using tactics inspired by counter-terrorism operations.

However, critics, including refugee advocates, have raised concerns that the legislation may lead to the prosecution of refugees themselves.

The bill also includes powers to restrict suspects' movements, including travel bans and limits on phone and internet use.

Law enforcement agencies have stressed the need for these new powers to tackle smuggling networks more effectively, with the aim of disrupting operations before boats set off.

As part of a broader international effort, Germany has agreed to introduce a new crime of illegal immigration to the UK, while Bulgaria has begun seizing shipments of smuggling equipment.

The UK government hopes these new measures will provide the tools needed to combat people smuggling and protect vulnerable migrants.