From 10 February 2012 the UK Border Agency will publish quarterly reports detailing the penalties given to people or organisations who employ illegal workers.
The UK Border Agency points out that Illegal working undercuts businesses that operate within the law, undermines British workers, and exploits migrant workers. The Agency confirms that all employers have a duty to check that all new employees are entitled to work in the UK and employers who employ illegal workers face robust action, including facing a civil penalty of up to £10,000 for each illegal worker. To heighten awareness, the Agency has now decided to publish quarterly reports providing a reference tool for the public, corporate partners and other stakeholders. The reports will show: (i) the number of civil penalties issued; (ii) the number of illegal workers found; (iii) the value of the penalties broken down geographically; and (iv) the names of employers who have not paid for a penalty 28 days after they have exhausted their objection and/or appeal rights.
This provides summary information and comment on the subject areas covered. Where employment tribunal and appellate court cases are reported, the information does not set out all of the facts, the legal arguments presented and the judgments made in every aspect of the case. Employment law is subject to constant change either by statute or by interpretation by the courts. While every care has been taken in compiling this information, we cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Specialist legal advice must be taken on any legal issues that may arise before embarking upon any formal course of action.
