The UK government has ramped up its crackdown on illegal workers, with a significant focus on Indian restaurants and takeaways.
This intensified enforcement effort, described by the Home Office as a “blitz,” has led to a sharp increase in workplace raids, arrests, and penalties imposed on businesses found to be employing undocumented workers.
While the initiative is part of a broader campaign against illegal immigration across various industries, Indian eateries have emerged as a primary target, raising concerns about the disproportionate impact on the sector.
This push comes as the Labour government, under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, seeks to implement stricter border security measures and enhance immigration enforcement.
The policy shift is driven by a surge in illegal migration and growing political pressure to curb unlawful employment practices.
Critics argue that the crackdown risks exacerbating labour shortages in the hospitality sector, which heavily relies on migrant workers.
Indian restaurants among most raided businesses
Data from the Home Office reveals that 828 businesses were raided in January alone—a 48% increase compared to the same period last year.
These raids resulted in 609 arrests, marking a 73% rise in enforcement actions against illegal workers.
Indian restaurants, along with nail bars, convenience stores, and car washes, were among the hardest hit, with multiple establishments facing significant penalties and workforce disruptions.
One of the most notable incidents took place in Humberside, northern England, where seven individuals were detained at a single Indian restaurant.
The Home Office justified the sector-wide targeting by citing longstanding concerns over illegal employment practices and exploitation in the food industry.
Between July 5 last year and January 31 this year, the number of civil penalties issued for illegal working increased by approximately 38% compared to the same period in 2023.
Employers found in violation now face fines of up to £60,000 per undocumented worker—a sharp increase from the previous penalties.
Political motivations
The renewed focus on immigration enforcement aligns with Labour’s broader strategy to tighten border controls and crack down on undocumented workers.
The government is preparing to introduce the Border Security, Asylum, and Immigration Bill, which will grant law enforcement agencies greater authority to seize mobile phones from individuals entering the UK illegally and dismantle organised criminal networks facilitating unlawful migration.
The bill is expected to receive its second reading this week, with Home Secretary Yvette Cooper underscoring the need for stronger enforcement measures.
She stated that the UK’s immigration rules must be respected and that employers hiring undocumented workers contribute to a system that fuels illegal migration, abuses vulnerable workers, and damages the economy.
The Labour government has increased the use of deportation flights, with over 800 individuals—including those convicted of serious crimes such as drug offenses, theft, rape, and murder—removed from the country in recent months.
These flights represent some of the largest migrant return operations in UK history, reinforcing the government’s stance on illegal immigration.
Industry concerns
Despite government assurances, the crackdown has sparked concerns among business owners, particularly in the hospitality sector, where Indian restaurants play a crucial role.
The sector has long relied on migrant workers, including those on skilled work visas, to fill labour gaps.
The aggressive enforcement campaign risks worsening staff shortages, driving up costs, and forcing many small businesses to shut down.
The Opposition Conservative Party has criticised Labour’s immigration bill, arguing that it lacks the necessary provisions to deter illegal crossings.
Some Tory lawmakers have pushed for additional restrictions on migrant access to permanent residency, claiming that the proposed measures do not go far enough.
As the UK government doubles down on its immigration policies, Indian restaurants remain at the centre of a contentious debate over enforcement priorities, economic consequences, and the future of the country’s migrant workforce.
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