Illegal immigrants caught driving in Britain could now be jailed for up to six months under new government powers.
The latest Immigration Bill, published by the Home Office, includes additional measures to crackdown on illegal immigrants using Britain’s roads.
Driving while unlawfully in Britain can now not only lead to a jail sentence for those convicted, but also an unlimited fine. Any car used by illegal immigrants can also be seized by the police.
Driving licences can also be seized by immigrant enforcement officers if they suspect the holder is in the country illegally.
The raft of measures in the government’s new bill have been created to reduce the amount of “pull factors” seen as drawing migrants to Britain through illegal means.
The Immigration Minister, James Brokenshire, commented: “The message is clear - if you are here illegally, you shouldn't be entitled to receive the everyday benefits and services available to hard-working UK families and people who have come to this country legitimately to contribute.
“Whether it is working, renting a flat, having a bank account or driving a car, the new Immigration Bill will help us to take tougher action than ever before on those who flout the law.”
