‘Hostile environment’ is back

ILLEGAL migrants working in the black market face a new crackdown in a return of ‘hostile environment’ checks.

Immigration minister Robert Jenrick said the Home Office will use ‘every available power’ to ensure ‘only those eligible can work, receive benefits or access public services’.

He wants to expand the ‘hostile environment for illegal migration’ led by Theresa May as home secretary and paused in the wake of the Windrush scandal. Mr Jenrick will lead a taskforce that will carry out checks on bank accounts, jobs and examine how to protect access to rented accommodation and driving licences.

It will also review legislation to prevent illegal migrants from exploiting the explosion in casual jobs in the gig economy, such as food delivery roles.