The UK Home Office has announced a 'nationwide blitz' targeting asylum seekers working illegally, particularly in the gig economy as delivery riders, following political controversy and media reports. Enforcement teams will focus on migrants suspected of illegal work while receiving taxpayer-funded support. Companies employing illegal workers face significant fines, and asylum seekers caught working could lose accommodation or support.
Home Office announces ‘nationwide blitz’ on asylum seekers taking jobs
Immigration and asylumUKGig economyPoliticsBusiness
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TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️The UK Home Office has announced a 'nationwide blitz' targeting asylum seekers working illegally, particularly in the gig economy as delivery riders, following political controversy and media reports. Enforcement teams will focus on migrants suspected of illegal work while receiving taxpayer-funded support. Companies employing illegal workers face significant fines, and asylum seekers caught working could lose accommodation or support.
Trending- 1 Media stories emerged about asylum seekers working illegally as takeaway delivery riders
- 2 Ten days ago, Chris Philp posted a social media video visiting an asylum hotel
- 3 On Monday, Uber Eats, Deliveroo and Just Eat promised to increase facial verification checks after a meeting with Home Office ministers
- 4 Home Office announced the 'nationwide blitz' on Friday
- 5 Keir Starmer is to discuss the issue with Emmanuel Macron next week
- Increased enforcement and arrests related to illegal working
- Asylum seekers caught working could lose accommodation or support payments
- Businesses employing illegal workers face fines, director disqualifications, or prison terms
- Political vulnerability for the government on immigration issues
- Potential for a 'one in, one out' deal with France regarding small boat arrivals
What: The Home Office announced a 'nationwide blitz' on asylum seekers working illegally.
When: Announced Friday. Enforcement has increased in the year since Labour took power.
Where: Across the UK.
Why: To address political controversy and media reports about asylum seekers working illegally, particularly in the gig economy, and to combat the 'pull factor' of such work.
How: Enforcement teams will conduct 'strategic, intel-driven activity' focusing on the gig economy. The Home Office met with delivery companies (Uber Eats, Deliveroo, Just Eat) to increase facial verification checks. Penalties include loss of support for asylum seekers and fines/disqualifications for businesses.