The UK government has launched a consultation on the extension of the Right to Work Scheme.
Through the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill, government hopes to strengthen enforcement rules and address illegal working across all sectors, including construction.
As part of the proposed changes, the requirement to conduct right to work checks will be extended to cover businesses hiring ‘gig economy’ and zero-hours workers.
The consultation is seeking views on how this change should be operationalised and enforced, as well as how processes can be simplified to make it easier for employers to fulfil their responsibilities.
Minister’s view
Alex Norris, minister for border security and asylum, said: “These legislative amendments will restrict the ability of rogue employers to take advantage of illegal workers and encourage businesses to provide work opportunities to those permitted to work in the UK.
“It will provide parity across industries and will set a level playing field for businesses to uphold their responsibilities to prevent illegal working in the UK.
“This safeguard will also ensure that businesses acting lawfully will not be undercut on labour costs by those who exploit the system.”
Norris added that the future introduction of digital ID cards will create a “simpler, more consistent way for employers to check someone’s right to work”, making it harder for people to avoid checks or use forged documents.
The consultation, which closes on 10 December, can be found here.
