UK Immigration Enforcement Hits Record High as Government Cracks Down on Illegal Working

Strategic Insights -

The UK government has intensified immigration enforcement visits, focusing on industries such as takeaway shops, fast food drivers, beauty salons, and car washes. As a result, the number of arrests of migrants working illegally has reached its highest level since records began, with 11,052 visits and 8,232 arrests in the past 12 months. The government's efforts have led to 1,050 individuals being deported, with a further 10,806 visits made in relation to other immigration offences.

Key Takeaways:

  • Immigration Enforcement officers made 11,052 visits relating to illegal working practices in the 12 months to September, a 38% increase from the previous year and the highest level since records began in 2011.
  • A total of 8,232 illegal migrants were arrested, 63% more than last year, with 1,050 of them being deported from the UK.
  • The government is facing criticism over its one-in, one-out returns deal with France, after two migrants who were deported under the scheme vowed to return to the UK.
  • The UK has seen a surge in asylum seekers working as delivery riders for companies such as Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Just Eat, despite it being a criminal offence to employ migrants illegally.
  • The Home Office is launching a six-week consultation on plans to expand the right-to-work checks to include employers in the gig economy.

Statistics:

  • 11,052 immigration enforcement visits relating to illegal working practices in the 12 months to September (38% increase from the previous year).
  • 8,232 arrests of illegal migrants (63% increase from last year).
  • 1,050 deportations of individuals who were arrested for working illegally.
  • 10,806 visits made in relation to other immigration offences.
  • 1.5 million people thought to be working in the gig economy in the UK (estimated).
  • Estimated 5 million people self-employed in the UK.

Sources:

  • Channel 4 News
  • Home Office
  • Yvette Cooper (former Home Secretary)
  • Shabana Mahmood (current Home Secretary)