Migrant workers

The government will next week launch an advertising campaign warning employers of the penalties, including jail and unlimited fines, they face for hiring illegal migrant workers.

The Home Office will run a three-week radio and newspaper campaign outlining a new immigration policy, which is due to come into effect on 29 February and includes biometric ID cards for foreign nationals.

Immigration minister Liam Byrne says: "Illegal working attracts illegal migrants and undercuts British wages. That's why [the government] is determined to shut it down. The message is clear for employers - we will not tolerate illegal working."

The campaign initially targets the catering and road haulage industries, with the message: 'If you hire illegal migrant workers you're as illegal as they are'. One ad shows a truck with the words U R Nicked emblazoned on the side, while another reveals a café called 'Arrestaurante'.

View other news from January 2008