Drivers caught using their mobile handsets behind the wheel are set to receive significantly higher penalties, under new rules set out by the government.

Motorists will face six points on their licence and a fine of £200.

Offenders who have recently passed their test could be forced to retake their driving examination.

Experienced drivers who offend twice could face court and a fine of up to £1000, as well as a driving ban of six months or more.

The new rules, set to come into effect sometime next year, are applicable to England, Scotland and Wales.

At present offenders face a three point penalty and a fine of £100.

A new ‘Think!’ safer driving campaign will accompany the updated legislation.

Northern Irish motorists caught texting while driving currently face three penalty points and a £60 fine. Authorities there will observe the effects of the new rules in the rest of the UK before considering a similar change.

Martin Darrel's brother was killed by a texting driver.

He told BBC Radio 5 Live: "If you can't live by a few rules that are not going to make you into a killer, then can you not drive please, because it's not much to ask."

"Just put your phone down... the text message that killed my brother, the bloke was writing about he was going home to meet his mate and take his dog for a walk.

"That's the end of my brother's life... it's pointless, absolutely pointless."

The driver, Christopher Gard, admitted causing death by dangerous driving and was jailed for nine years.

In a recent survey 31 per cent of drivers admitted to using a phone behind the wheel, compared to just eight per cent in 2014.