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In a bold move aimed at curbing illegal immigration, Reform UK has unveiled a plan that would impose significant financial penalties on companies and potential prison sentences for executives who employ undocumented workers. Under the proposed legislation, dubbed the ‘Deliveroo law,’ firms could face fines amounting to 10% of their global revenue, regardless of whether they were aware of the employees’ immigration status. This announcement is set to be detailed by the party’s home affairs spokesperson, Zia Yusuf, in a speech later today.
Severe Consequences for Employers
Yusuf emphasised the drastic measures that would be implemented under a Reform government, stating that Britain would adopt the most stringent penalties worldwide for employing illegal migrants. “Bosses of companies employing illegal migrants will face imprisonment, and their firms will incur fines based on their global revenues,” he declared in a statement to the *Daily Express*. Currently, the law allows for fines of up to £60,000 for each illegal worker, but Reform’s proposal seeks to escalate the consequences significantly.
The backdrop to this announcement includes a recent government crackdown on illegal employment within the delivery sector. In July, the Home Office reported the arrest of 10 workers from Evri, all of whom were on immigration bail and under strict conditions. This follows a broader trend, with figures from January indicating that visits and arrests relating to illegal working reached record highs since data tracking began in 2019. Specifically, there were 12,791 visits in 2025, marking a 57% increase from the previous year.
Government’s Stance on Illegal Working
A spokesperson for the Home Office reiterated the detrimental effects of illegal employment, stating: “Illegal working undermines honest businesses, exploits vulnerable individuals, and fuels organised immigration crime.” The government is actively working to close loopholes that currently allow undocumented migrants to find work in the UK. This includes extending right-to-work checks to the gig economy and delivery sectors. Penalties for employers who fail to comply can include steep fines, closure of their businesses, revocation of licenses, and prison sentences of up to five years.
Community Reactions and Wider Implications
The proposed law has sparked a variety of reactions across the political landscape. While supporters argue it is necessary to protect legal workers and maintain the integrity of the labour market, critics warn that such harsh measures could lead to unintended consequences, including increased risk of exploitation for vulnerable workers caught in precarious employment situations.
In other news, the political climate remains contentious as Jewish leaders have refused a meeting with Joshua Bonehill-Paine, a Conservative council candidate with a controversial past, while the government defends its early prisoner release schemes despite significant public backlash.
Why it Matters
This proposed legislation marks a pivotal moment in the UK’s approach to immigration and employment law, reflecting growing public concern over illegal working practices. By introducing such severe penalties, Reform UK aims to deter businesses from hiring undocumented migrants, potentially reshaping the dynamics of the labour market. However, the long-term implications of these measures could impact thousands of workers and raise ethical questions about the treatment of vulnerable populations in the workforce. As the debate unfolds, the balance between enforcing immigration laws and protecting human rights will be crucial in determining the success of these reforms.
