The Recruitment & Employment Confederation (REC) has responded to the bills outlined in yesterdays Queen’s speech which will effect immigration policy and data-checking.

The REC emphasised its concern that employers and recruitment agencies are expected to play an increasingly difficult front-line role in combating illegal working.

REC director of external relations, Tom Hadley, says: “Better enforcement is necessary to ensure that the activities of rogue operators are addressed and that illegal working is curtailed. However, recruitment professionals are already playing a central role but the Home Office needs to fulfil its side of the bargain. The imposition of tougher penalties can only be justified if the Home Office is doing everything possible to provide effective guidance to employers and agencies and is taking tangible action when instances of illegal working are reported.”

The Queen’s speech also included fresh initiatives for identity cards and biometric testing. The REC says ID cards could aide effective identity management, however, there are real concerns over the workability and effective delivery of such large-scale initiatives.