Stop parents being 'punished' over crossings

CAMPAIGNERS are calling for stronger protections to prevent parents being punished for trying to seek sanctuary with their children under a new offence over English Channel crossings.

- 

Those who endanger or risk another life at sea during the dangerous journeys could face five years in jail as part of Government plans to curb crossings and crack down on people smugglers.

According to the Home Office, the offence is to stop more people being crammed into unsafe boats and would apply to those involved in physical aggression and intimidation, as well as anyone who resists rescue.

But the clause laid out in the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill currently going through Parliament has been described as "ill-defined" and could apply to a wide range of conduct beyond violence.