An immigration operation unfolded at an asylum hotel, targeting individuals suspected of illegally working as delivery drivers. During the incident, a suspect was overheard angrily responding to officials, while more than 20 officers equipped in tactical gear undertook the extensive raid, seizing bicycles and mobile phones as evidence. Reports indicated that several asylum seekers were allegedly working for Just Eat, all while receiving government assistance funded by taxpayers.
The operation followed a report by the Express that disclosed the prevalence of illegal working within the hotel. Consequently, executives from major food delivery companies, including Deliveroo, Just Eat, and Uber Eats, were summoned to meet with the Home Office. Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, reinforced a commitment to combat illegal employment, announcing measures such as daily facial recognition checks for delivery drivers associated with the companies and increased enforcement actions, including the confiscation of electric bikes linked to illegal work.
Echoing these sentiments, Chris Philp, the Tory Shadow Home Secretary, emphasized the need for continuous police action against illegal working, stating that such practices attract undocumented immigrants to the UK and pose safety risks to the public. Past incidents highlighted the dangers surrounding unverified delivery drivers, as seen when a journalist was threatened with violence while attempting to question asylum seekers leaving the hotel. Asylum seekers are prohibited from working in the UK for at least one year, and even those permitted to work cannot take on delivery roles.
In response to the crackdown, Just Eat announced it would enhance its verification processes to daily checks, expressing full support for government initiatives to address illegal working. Deliveroo affirmed its stance of zero tolerance towards any misuse of its platform, while Uber Eats reiterated its commitment to collaborating with authorities and industry leaders to eliminate the issue of illegal employment.
6 Comments
Manolo Noriega
Excellent, the delivery companies need to clean up their act. This is a good start, good on the Home Office.
Fuerza
So they expect these people to survive how exactly? Let's give them support, instead of taking what little they have away.
Manolo Noriega
This is nothing more than a scapegoat to distract from the government's failures elsewhere. They are targeting people already in incredibly difficult circumstances.
Ongania
This creates a safe environment for all people. If they are doing illegal acts such as illegal employment, they should be penalised.
Fuerza
About time! It's vital to crack down on illegal working. It's unfair to those who follow the law.
dedus mopedus
The government cuts their ability to earn, and then criminalizes when they try. They'd starve otherwise.