Nationality and Borders Bill

Diana R. Johnson argues for the necessity of Clause 82, stressing that commencement provisions are crucial to ensure timely implementation and operational effectiveness.

Introduced several new clauses for discussion including exemptions for child victims, introduction of Independent Victim Navigators, limitations on disqualification from protection, civil legal aid under the national referral mechanism, and support and leave to remain for confirmed victims. Provided details on each clause's objectives.

Expressed concern that certain elements of the Bill may restrict victims' ability to come forward with evidence against perpetrators, specifically highlighting public order disqualification threshold and time periods on slavery and trafficking information notices. Asked the Minister to address these concerns.

Asked if more resources are needed for police to tackle modern slavery, supporting the argument that better funding could lead to increased prosecutions.

Highlighted the isolation and fear faced by victims of modern-day slavery, emphasising the need for improved police training and awareness among local authorities to better assist these individuals.

Noted that Justice and Care charity and navigators have been successful in increasing prosecutions, supporting the lead MP's argument for better support mechanisms for victims.

Emphasised the importance of judicial review availability in addressing modern-day slavery issues, suggesting potential future support for similar measures.

Supports the new clause tabled by her right hon. Friend, arguing that provisions in part 5 will make it harder to identify, safeguard and support victims of modern slavery. Cites Home Office statistics showing a significant number of child referrals last year under the NRM and expresses concern over barriers being introduced to accessing protection for children exploited by county lines gangs.

Intervenes briefly, expressing support for protecting child victims of trafficking in the same manner as adult victims are protected, highlighting a need to revise current approaches.

Mr. Fuller supports new clause 39 to address the concerns raised by the Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner and emphasises that clause 62 lacks evidence of abuse in accessing the national referral mechanism. He raises issues with subsections (3)(b) and (3)(f), which he believes lower the bar for disqualification based on criminal sentencing. He also notes difficulties in bringing prosecutions for modern slavery and argues against making immigration law overly complex.

Intervened to reassure Mr. Fuller that he is on the side of right in proposing new clause 39, highlighting the importance of supporting amendments aimed at addressing modern-day slavery issues effectively.

Expressed support for new clause 39, indicating his willingness to back Mr. Fuller's proposal in the debate.

Argues that the clauses undermine protection for victims of trafficking and fail to address significant problems in identifying and prosecuting traffickers. Highlights issues with delays in the national referral mechanism and lack of stability for trafficking survivors. Supports amendments 127 and 128, which would remove trafficking notices due to risks they pose to credibility assessments and discourage support from victims.

Intervenes to agree that aspects of the Bill fuel the case for Scottish independence, suggesting a desire to build an immigration system based on fairness and international solidarity.

Mr. Bone argues that victims of human trafficking should receive automatic leave to remain for a year once identified, which would incentivise them to cooperate with authorities and help prosecute traffickers without fear of immigration consequences. He also raises concerns about re-trafficking children in care systems.

Mr. Iain Duncan Smith congratulates Tatiana Gren-Jardan on her upcoming birth, acknowledging her significant work in the field of human trafficking.

Ms. Margaret Greenwood expresses concern that the Bill will harm refugees and victims of trafficking, citing statistics from The Children’s Society showing a high number of child victims among potential modern slavery referrals. She supports Labour's new clause 6 to exempt child victims from many provisions and argues against pushbacks in the English Channel as proposed by the Government.

The amendment seeks to leave out Clause 62 as it breaks obligations to support victims of human trafficking and undermines the fight against slavery. The clause restricts protections available to victims, making them less likely to come forward and cooperate with law enforcement. It also disregards advice from Sara Thornton, the Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner.

Raises concerns about the Home Office's treatment of asylum seekers, highlighting issues such as isolation, prison-like conditions, lack of privacy, and increased vulnerability to exploitation. She cites evidence from Napier and Penally barracks and other facilities that undermine health and dignity. Thewliss supports amendment 6 on late disclosure, arguing it traps individuals in a system where they must disclose all information immediately or face negative consequences. She emphasises the trauma experienced by victims of trafficking and the need for proper support and understanding.

[INTERVENTION] Points out that the provision is of huge concern to constituents in Glasgow, particularly women who have been subjected to sexual violence and may not disclose such information during their first interview.

[INTERVENTION] Agrees with Thewliss, citing concerns that interviewers often lack qualifications or knowledge on traumatic experiences, leading to misunderstanding and ineffective support for vulnerable individuals.

The Bill is appalling as it does not bring safety or humanity to people around the world and will result in more people being put in danger. He supports the amendment tabled by Iain Duncan Smith but wants to go further in providing support for victims of trafficking and slavery, raising concerns about deportation after 12 months.

The Bill is hostile towards refugees and exacerbates their risk of poverty, exploitation, and family separation. He supports amendment 128 which would remove clause 58 and highlights issues related to modern slavery in industries like car washes and nail bars where forced labour often occurs.

Ms. McLaughlin is deeply concerned about measures in the Bill that aim to damage victims’ credibility based on late disclosure, arguing they create barriers to identification and engagement with victims of modern slavery or human trafficking. She mentions an increase in trafficking claims due to greater awareness among detention workers and improved ability to recognise vulnerability. She also cites guidance from the Modern Slavery Act 2015 that acknowledges trauma’s impact on early accounts.

Mr. Bone interjects, questioning whether Ms. McLaughlin supports what Governments have done to make the country a leader in the fight against modern-day slavery despite raising awareness and encouraging people to report.

The hon. Member intervened to express appreciation for the Government’s commitment but highlighted concerns regarding child victims of modern slavery and the need for clarity on support and leave to remain for confirmed victims.

The right hon. Member expressed gratitude for the Government's commitment but emphasised that they will continue to advocate for further support measures, including new clause 47, which aims to ensure appropriate support for confirmed victims of modern slavery.

Order was called multiple times to address delays in voting, deeming them as anti-democratic practices that obstruct further business. Emphasised the need for timely completion of divisions and asked for an investigation into those delaying the process.

Sought clarification on identifying individuals causing delays, agreeing with the anti-democratic nature of such actions and supporting efforts to clear the Lobby.

Proposed introducing electronic voting as a potential solution to speed up voting processes, noting the current delays in divisions were causing significant time loss.

Sought to make a point of order but was rebuffed by the Deputy Speaker, highlighting frustrations with the procedural delays and their impact on democratic processes.

Attempted to intervene but was denied by the Deputy Speaker, underscoring a lack of time due to delays caused by opposing members.

Decried delaying tactics as attacks on democracy and supported the importance of expediting the voting process for a critical piece of legislation.

Critiqued the Home Secretary's handling of illegal immigration across the Channel, arguing that proposed policies limit the ability to prosecute criminal gangs and proposing solutions such as safe legal routes for asylum seekers.