Motorists who have been convicted due to using their mobile phone while driving will face stiffer policy penalties, an insurer has revealed.

Allianz Insurance has stated that it will regard the use of a mobile phone as a dangerous driving conviction.

A recent survey carried out by the company revealed that over half of respondents would see a driver on their mobile every day.

Some 10 per cent of people questioned admitted to driving and using their mobile phone where a hands free kit was not in place

The insurers plan to increase the premiums by up to 30%.

Neil Walker, motor manager at Allianz Insurance, said: "Increasing premiums for drivers with mobile phone convictions reinforces the fact that this is a dangerous and needless act."

He added that motorists using their mobile phone will be liable for a fine, points which are added to the licence and an increase in their car insurance.