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In a bold move aimed at curbing illegal immigration, Reform UK has unveiled a stringent plan that includes hefty fines and potential prison sentences for employers found hiring undocumented workers. The party’s proposals, to be outlined by home affairs spokesperson Zia Yusuf in a forthcoming speech, are designed to hold companies accountable regardless of their knowledge of an employee’s immigration status. This initiative, referred to as the ‘Deliveroo law’, is part of a wider strategy to tackle illegal working in the UK.
Severe Penalties Proposed
Under the proposed legislation, firms could face fines amounting to 10% of their global revenues if they employ illegal migrants. Yusuf has stated that the measures would establish the UK as having the most severe penalties in the world for such offences. “Under a Reform government, Britain will have the harshest penalties for employing illegal migrants,” he asserted. “Bosses of companies employing illegal migrants will be sent to prison, and their companies fined 10% of their global revenues.”
Currently, the law permits fines of up to £60,000 for each illegal worker discovered, but Reform UK seeks to escalate these penalties significantly. This shift comes in the wake of a crackdown by the Home Office, which has intensified efforts to address illegal employment, particularly in the delivery sector.
Recent Government Actions
In July, the Home Office made headlines by arresting ten workers from Evri, who were on immigration bail and under strict monitoring. This operation is part of a broader trend, as figures released earlier this year revealed that inspections and arrests related to illegal employment have surged to record levels. In 2025 alone, there were 12,791 visits to businesses like nail bars, car washes, barber shops, and takeaway outlets, marking a 57% increase from the previous year.
A spokesperson for the Home Office echoed the importance of these measures, stating, “Illegal working undermines honest business, exploits vulnerable individuals and fuels organised immigration crime.” They also highlighted ongoing efforts to close loopholes that allow undocumented migrants to work, which now extend to the gig economy and delivery services.
Broader Context of Immigration Policy
The announcement comes amid a backdrop of increasing scrutiny on immigration practices within the UK. The government has faced criticism over its handling of illegal working and the potential exploitation of vulnerable migrant workers. The proposed reforms by Reform UK aim not only to deter businesses from hiring undocumented individuals but also to create a more robust framework for compliance and accountability.
In related news, Jewish leaders have declined a meeting with Joshua Bonehill-Paine, a controversial Conservative council candidate with a history of antisemitism. The Board of Deputies of British Jews and the Jewish Leadership Council have expressed concerns and are urging the Conservatives to reconsider his candidacy. Bonehill-Paine was previously jailed for racially aggravated harassment, underscoring the ongoing societal challenges regarding racism and discrimination.
Government’s Stance on Criminal Justice
Justice Minister Jake Richards has defended the government’s controversial early prisoner release scheme, which has included the release of individuals convicted of serious crimes, including the killers of police officer Andrew Harper. Despite pushback from the Police Federation, Richards maintained that difficult decisions are necessary to prevent the collapse of the prison system, acknowledging the profound grief of the victims’ families.
Additionally, the Ministry of Justice has confirmed that while they are exploring options to support victims of high-profile cases like Jeffrey Epstein, a public inquiry into his activities in the UK is currently not on the table.
Why it Matters
The proposed reforms by Reform UK signal a dramatic shift in the UK’s approach to illegal immigration and employment practices. By imposing significant financial penalties and potential prison sentences, the party aims to deter employers from hiring undocumented workers, thereby addressing both exploitation and illegal immigration head-on. These developments could reshape the landscape of employment law in the UK, with far-reaching implications for businesses and migrant workers alike. As the debate continues, the effectiveness of these measures will be closely scrutinised, reflecting the broader tensions surrounding immigration and labour rights in the country.
