A significant surge has been observed in the detentions of immigrants operating unlawfully in Britain, witnessing a 51% rise since the Labour party seized power. According to data released by the Home Office, a total of 6,410 individuals suspected of unlawful employment were taken into custody from the day after the general elections, July 5, until the end of May the following year. This sharp uptick, which amasses to a 51% increase, occurred in contrast to the preceding year when the Conservatives held power.
Labour’s transformative strategy, dubbed ‘Plan for Change’, was instrumental in conducting about 9,000 enforcement visits. These inspections were targeted at a variety of businesses including nail bars, construction sites, and restaurants, in search of labourers lacking the proper work permits. This corresponds to a 48% surge in the number of inspections carried out, compared to the previous year.
In many instances, vulnerable migrants fall victim to human traffickers’ deceptive tactics. They are lured into embarking on potentially fatal journeys aboard small dinghy boats across the Channel, only to end up toiling in gruelling conditions for meagre wages or sometimes, no remuneration at all.
UK law mandates that employers should carry out right-to-work checks before hiring overseas workers, but this regulation is often overlooked. If these requisite checks are not performed, the consequences can be severe. For each immigrant employed unlawfully, a £60,000 fine could be imposed on the employer. They may also face director disqualifications and carry the potential of serving up to five years in jail.
The incumbent government oversaw the repatriation of nearly 30,000 individuals who lacked legal rights to reside in the UK. The Government has declared that it would impose stricter immigration laws, augment the scope of right-to-work checks, and keep a close eye on particular sectors known for employing illegal immigrant workers.
In the past, it has been far too easy for employers to hire and exploit migrant workers, fostering an environment where it is convenient for these individuals to enter and take up illegal employment. We are making a clear stand that this will not be tolerated during our governance. By intensifying enforcement measures and implementing stern laws, we aim to take firm control over our immigration and refugee systems.
Despite their efforts, criticism continues to mount against the government for their approach to handling the matter of immigrants crossing via small boats. The French President, Emmanuel Macron, has been notably critical of their approach. He seems intent on requesting additional funds from the UK to intercept migrants crossing the Channel by sea, regardless of the £480 million promised earlier.
Insider sources from the Home Office divulged to the Express that France has yet to exhaust the astounding amount pledged by the former Prime Minister in 2023. New proposals under discussion could potentially allow French law enforcement officers to intercept small boats as far as 300 meters off the shore.
