The title of my video and blog post today is £26 fine for illegal workers. Today’s subject is the widely discussed story of a delivery rider convicted of working illegally in the UK and reportedly fined just £26 — roughly two hours’ pay. This follows a tweet from Prime Minister Keir Starmer stating: “It’s not fair on hardworking people when illegal workers cheat our system… we’re stopping it.” Strong words — but are we seeing strong action?
The Story and Why It Matters
According to reports, a 23-year-old delivery rider admitted working illegally after being caught in early May. He received a conditional discharge, with a £26 victim surcharge. Media coverage described it as the first conviction of its kind following a Home Office crackdown that reportedly involved the arrest of nearly 300 asylum seekers working illegally for delivery firms.
For many who work hard and follow the rules, a token penalty feels like a poor deterrent. The public reaction online reflects that frustration: comments questioned whether such a small fine sends any meaningful message and whether government promises are matching reality.
Compassion and Clarity
It’s important to say this clearly: compassion for the genuinely vulnerable is right and biblical. Christians should never be indifferent to those fleeing conflict or hardship. But compassion does not cancel law, and love does not remove responsibility. When people enter or work in a country, the just and loving path is to honour that nation’s laws. Otherwise, the burden falls on those who do things properly — the very “hardworking people” politicians claim to defend.
It’s not fair on hardworking people when illegal workers cheat our system.
We’re stopping it.
We’ve arrested hundreds of delivery riders working illegally and boosted immigration enforcement teams.
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) August 12, 2025
What the New Testament Says
The New Testament gives us a balanced, deeply practical framework for public life, work, and integrity. Here are key verses (NKJV) that shape a Christian response:
Romans 13:1–2
Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves.
Romans 13:7
Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor.
1 Peter 2:13–15
Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake, whether to the king as supreme, or to governors, as to those who are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and for the praise of those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men.
Titus 3:1–2
Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men.
2 Corinthians 8:21
Providing honorable things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.
1 Thessalonians 4:11–12
That you also aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you, that you may walk properly toward those who are outside, and that you may lack nothing.
Law, Mercy, and Meaningful Deterrents
These passages don’t pretend governments are perfect; they call us to honour the office of authority and to live uprightly. Mercy matters — but so do justice and order. If penalties are so light that they invite repeated wrongdoing, society sends a mixed message. Genuine compassion helps the vulnerable; it does not erode fairness for those who do things legally.
Hope Beyond the Headlines
Our channel is evangelistic as well as topical. In a world that can feel confused and unjust, the greatest hope is in Jesus Christ. He died to give us forgiveness and eternal life. When we turn to Him, we receive new life and a new heart that loves truth, justice, and mercy together.
A Simple Prayer
If you’re not yet a Christian and would like to begin with God today, you can pray:
“Dear Lord Jesus, I acknowledge You as Lord and Saviour of my life. I repent of all my sins. I ask You today to take complete control over every aspect of my life. Amen.”
If you prayed that sincerely, I encourage you to start reading the Bible (begin with the Gospel of John), pray daily, and connect with a Bible-believing church.
What Do You Think?
Does a £26 penalty send the right message? How should a nation balance mercy with the rule of law? Share your thoughts below — respectfully and thoughtfully — and let’s keep the conversation grounded in Scripture and truth.
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