Martin Grace, head of organised immigration crime operations for the NCA, said: “It is clear to us that with some of the boats being used there is little or no genuine commercial use for them.

“They are likely being manufactured and sold online for the sole purpose of being used for people smuggling, and this is now something we are focusing on.”

Dan O’Mahoney, Home Office clandestine Channel threat commander, said: “The recent tragedy is a devastating reminder of the dangers of Channel crossings, choreographed by organised crime groups who are profiteering from these deadly and unnecessary crossings.

“We work closely with our European and international partners and police, hand-in-glove, day in, day out to arrest, investigate and prosecute organised criminals, preventing numerous departures and saving lives.

“But this is a complicated issue and we are determined to do all we can to work with the NCA to tackle criminal gangs and prevent further loss of life.”