Overview

This bill aims to criminalize illegal immigration to the UK. It proposes penalties for those present in the UK without legal authority after April 1st, 2021, and for those entering or attempting to enter the UK illegally after that date. Deportation will be the standard consequence of conviction, unless the Secretary of State certifies it to be against the public interest.

Description

The Illegal Immigration (Offences) Bill makes it a criminal offence to be in the UK without legal authority after April 1st, 2021, or to enter or attempt to enter the UK illegally after that date.

Penalties

Those found guilty face up to six months imprisonment, a fine (up to £5,000 in Scotland and Northern Ireland), or both. A deportation order will typically follow conviction, unless the Secretary of State certifies it to be against the public interest. This requires the Secretary of State to submit a certificate to the court.

Extent and Commencement

The bill applies to England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland and comes into effect upon passing.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly state the cost. However, increased enforcement and deportation processes could lead to higher government spending on immigration control and potentially legal challenges.

Groups Affected

Groups potentially affected include:

• Individuals in the UK without legal authority: They face criminal prosecution, imprisonment, fines and deportation.
• Immigration enforcement agencies: Increased workload and resource demands.
• Courts: Increased caseload of immigration offences.
• Taxpayers: Potentially higher taxes to fund increased enforcement and deportation costs.

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