The government has revealed a significant increase in arrests related to illegal working over the past two years. According to data released by the Home Office, there have been 17,000 arrests since July 2024, marking a 122% surge compared to the preceding period. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood emphasized that individuals engaging in illegal work activities in the UK will face consequences as enforcement efforts intensify.
Reform UK’s Zia Yusuf recently faced criticism for proposing a ‘Deliveroo law’ to tackle illegal working, which was deemed redundant as existing laws already address this issue. The Home Office reported a 50% rise in deportations of individuals caught working illegally, with 2,357 people sent back to their home countries since the general election. Enforcement actions have intensified, resulting in hundreds of arrests, including cases linked to small boat arrivals.
Mahmood highlighted the government’s increased focus on Immigration Enforcement to combat illegal working effectively, stating that the current level of enforcement activity is unprecedented in British history. Meanwhile, Yusuf’s pledge to impose stricter penalties on companies hiring illegal migrants was met with skepticism as similar laws are already in place.
Plans to strengthen regulations in the gig economy, particularly in the delivery sector, were also outlined. Starting from October, companies like Deliveroo will be obligated to verify the eligibility of their workforce, with penalties including hefty fines, director disqualifications, and potential prison terms. Additionally, the government aims to double the Immigration Enforcement budget by 2029 to facilitate more raids.
Reform’s attention-grabbing immigration proposals, including involving the Royal Navy in intercepting small boats and establishing a tip line for reporting illegal activities, have sparked debates. The party’s initiatives have been described by critics as attempts to divert attention from ongoing controversies involving party members.
In response, stakeholders like Deliveroo have emphasized their commitment to combatting illegal working through stringent verification processes and advanced technology. Opposition figures, such as Labour’s Bridget Phillipson, have criticized Reform’s tactics, highlighting the government’s ongoing efforts to address illegal working with increased enforcement activities and record levels of arrests and raids.
Amidst these developments, Nigel Farage’s party is facing scrutiny over undisclosed financial matters, including a significant donation and ongoing police investigations into party finances. The political landscape remains turbulent as various parties clash over immigration policies and enforcement strategies.
