Eco-protesters warned they could face prison

Protesters who disrupt major road and rail projects face up to three years in jail under a new law announced by Priti Patel.

The Home Secretary said Britain would no longer be “held to ransom” by eco-protesters who created “death trap” tunnels that not only put lives at risk but diverted police resources.

The new offence of “dangerous tunnelling” will be introduced through an amendment to the public order bill.

The move follows guerilla tactics by eco groups including Just Stop Oil and HS2 rebellion, which saw the return of Dan Hooper, known as Swampy, who joined activists in tunnels outside Euston protesting at the HS2 rail link.