The government has announced new measures targeting migrants arriving on small boats, with those caught supplying items such as engines or putting others at risk during Channel crossings now facing prosecution. However, questions remain about the effectiveness of these laws in deterring the determined individuals making the irresponsible journey. Starting today, authorities will begin seizing phones at the Manston processing centre in an effort to track down those organising the dangerous voyages. While the facility boasts technology to extract key evidence from devices, there are fears that dinghy migrants may simply dispose of their phones in the sea before reaching British shores, rendering the measure futile. Record numbers continue despite unfavourable conditions An astonishing 41,000 people arrived via the Channel last year, and while bad weather has temporarily halted crossings in 2026, it remains to be seen whether the new laws will have a significant impact on the staggering numbers. Under the fresh regulations, officers can demand illegal migrants remove outer garments and search inside their mouths for concealed SIM cards. Lengthy jail terms promised, …