In a statement the UKBA said: "Illegal working causes damaging social and economic problems for the UK. It undercuts businesses that operate within the law, undermines British workers, and exploits migrant workers. Employers who employ illegal workers will face robust action and may face a civil penalty of up to £10,000 for each illegal worker."
The Government works with employers to ensure that they take their responsibility to avoid employing illegal workers seriously. The UKBA recommends all employers check that all new employees are entitled to work in the UK and it publishes guidance guidance to help.
The report sue to be published shortly will show the number of civil penalties issued; the number of illegal workers found; andthe value of the penalties broken down by geographical regions.
UKBA will also publish a quarterly report naming employers who have not paid or are not making regular payments for a penalty 28 days after they have exhausted their objection and/or appeal rights; or been served with a second or subsequent penalty once they have exhausted their objection and/or appeal rights regardless of whether any payment has been made.
A penalty will be counted as a second or subsequent penalty if it was issued within three years of a previous penalty or warning letter.