GWENT businesses were fined more than £60,000 over a three-month period for employing illegal workers.

Figures from the UK Border Agency show that seven businesses were fined a total of £63,750 for employing nine illegal workers, between April and July this year.

The Canton Kitchen, Monnow Street, Monmouth and Naz Brothers, Corporation Road, Newport, were both fined £10,000 after two illegal workers were found on each of the premises.

Three illegal employees were found at the New Moon Restaurant, Commercial Street, Newport, leading to a £15,000 fine and Ron Harris Stables in Earlswood, Monmouthshire, was fined £8,750 after on illegal worker was found on the premises.

The Spice House, Canning Street, Cwm, was fined £10,000 for employing two illegal workers and Shangri La, of St Mary Street, Chepstow, and Town and City Parking Limited, in John Street, Newport, were fined £5,000 each for employing one illegal worker.

A UK Border Agency spokesman said the agency operates an intelligence-led approach to operations, acting on information from members of the public.

When suspected illegal workers are found on premises, UK Border Agency officers issue a notice warning employers they will be fined unless they can prove they carried out legally required checks on non-European staff, such as asking for a passport or work permit.

Jane Farleigh, UK Border Agency regional director for Wales, said the substantial fines imposed reflects how seriously the problem of illegal working is taken by the agency.

She said: “The use of illegal workers undercuts legitimate businesses and is unfair on honest employers.”

Details of businesses fined under the civil penalty scheme are published on the UK Border Agency website.