House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
Modern Slavery
22 September 2020 · Home Office
Proposed by Victoria Atkins Con Louth and Horncastle
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- The UK Government will require organisations to publish modern slavery statements through a central reporting service.
- Mandatory topics for modern slavery statements will be introduced, along with a single reporting deadline.
- Public bodies will be required to report on modern slavery risks in their supply chains, and civil penalties for non-compliance may be imposed.
Issue summary
The statement addresses the UK government's response to the Transparency in Supply Chain Consultation, focusing on strengthening transparency requirements under the Modern Slavery Act.
Action requested
The Government will require organisations to publish their modern slavery statements through a central reporting service and introduce mandatory topics for these statements. A single reporting deadline will be set, along with potential civil penalties for non-compliance. Public bodies will also be required to report on modern slavery risks in their supply chains.
Key facts
- The Modern Slavery Act 2015 requires businesses to report annually on efforts to prevent and address modern slavery risks.
- In May 2019, the Independent Review of the Modern Slavery Act recommended measures to strengthen section 54 of the Act.
- Government departments will publish annual modern slavery statements starting in September 2021.