Businesses that employ illegal workers will be hit with “the full force of government machinery”, immigration minister James Brokenshire has warned.
According to a BBC report, announcing a “new approach” to “rogue employers” who give work to illegal migrants, he said they were denying UK citizens jobs and driving down wages.
Immigration officers are understood to be preparing a wave of raids this autumn targeting certain sectors.
The Times says cleaning firms, building sites and care homes will be targeted.
BBC political correspondent Robin Brant said ministers were trying to “enhance” practical measures to combat illegal workers, rather than bring in new measures.
The government was trying to send a message to voters that it was “trying to do all it can” to tackle issues around illegal immigrants, he added.
