The UK government announced on Sunday evening an increase in fines for employers and property owners who allow undocumented migrants to work or rent, as part of new measures to curb the arrival of migrants.

The Conservative government, facing declining popularity ahead of next year's general election, seeks to stop the influx of migrants crossing the Channel by boat.

The Home Office also stated that "illegal employment and renting are a pull factor" for migrants who risk their lives to enter British territory.

The department added in a statement that civil penalties for employers will be tripled to reach £45,000 ($57,000) per worker.

Fines imposed on property owners will rise from £1,000 per tenant to a maximum of £10,000, with increases in fines for tenants also.

It also noted that fines will be higher for repeat offenses, and employers and owners must verify the eligibility of workers and tenants.

The new fines will come into effect in early 2024, according to the department, which pointed out that the last time fines were adjusted was in 2014.

For his part, Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick said, "Making it harder for illegal migrants to find work in the UK is vital to deter dangerous and unnecessary small boat crossings."

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak promised to "stop" the arrival of irregular migrants to his country across the Channel on small boats often departing from nearby French shores.

Last month, the government passed a controversial law that prevents migrants who arrive in the UK illegally from seeking asylum in the country, a move that has been strongly condemned by the United Nations.

In 2022, more than 45,000 migrants arrived on the shores of England by boat, a record number. Since the beginning of the year, their number has surpassed 13,000.