Ministers announce higher penalties from next year in attempt to reduce ‘pull factors’ for people making small boat crossings
People who allow asylum seekers to work for them or rent their properties in breach of the law will face significantly increased fines from next year, as ministers attempt to reduce “pull factors” for people making small boat crossings.
Landlords found to be hosting a lodger without lawful immigration status for the first time could be forced to pay £5,000 – a huge increase from the existing maximum fine of £80. If they are found to be accommodating multiple occupiers for the first time they could face a fine of £10,000 for each occupier, a sharp increase from the £1,000 maximum fine brought in when the civil penalties were introduced in 2014.
