In a controversial move that has sparked widespread condemnation, the Home Office has been issuing formal warnings to food delivery riders working for platforms including Deliveroo and Uber Eats, threatening them with removal from the UK.
Shock Notices Sent to Gig Economy Workers
The department has sent what are known as 'minded to remove' letters to individuals identified as working illegally in the food delivery sector. These notices give recipients a brief window—typically seven days—to provide evidence of their right to work in Britain before facing potential deportation action.
Labour's Outrage and Government Defence
Shadow justice secretary Shabana Mahmood expressed profound dismay, revealing she had personally encountered delivery riders in her Birmingham constituency who had received these warnings. "It is truly shocking that the Home Office is spending its time and resources in this way," she stated.
Ms Mahmood highlighted the concerning timing, noting these actions coincide with the government's struggle to clear the asylum backlog. "At the very same time that the Home Office is trying to clear the asylum backlog, it is spending its time and resources in this way," she added.
Industry Response and Worker Vulnerability
A Deliveroo spokesperson confirmed the company's cooperation with law enforcement but emphasised their rigorous processes: "We have robust processes in place to ensure all riders have the right to work in the UK."
The crackdown exposes the precarious position of many gig economy workers, particularly those from migrant backgrounds who may have limited understanding of their employment rights or immigration status under complex UK laws.
Broader Immigration Strategy Concerns
This development comes amid ongoing debates about the government's approach to immigration enforcement. Critics argue that targeting individual delivery riders represents a misdirection of resources, especially when larger systemic issues within the immigration system remain unresolved.
The Home Office maintains that immigration enforcement should be conducted "fairly, lawfully and appropriately," but has faced increasing scrutiny over its methods and priorities in dealing with undocumented workers.
