A Reform councillor’s business in County Durham has been fined £40,000 for hiring an illegal worker.

Andrew Harrison, who represents the Seaham division, has received the penalty after his Churchills Management Ltd company was found to have employed someone without the legal right to work in the UK.

But Cllr Harrison, who was elected to Durham County Council in May, claims the individual did have the right to work in the UK.

The Reform county councillor, listed as the sole director of the local firm, is appealing the decision at Newcastle County Court, with the Home Office as defendants. The penalty notice was issued on February 17, 2025.

Cllr Harrison (left) was elected to represent the Seaham division for Reform UK at the May local elections. (Image: CHRIS BOOTH)

Cllr Harrison said

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