Scrutiny expected over tightening modern slavery laws

The Modern Slavery Act became law in March 2015, and the latest review found its introduction led to 289 modern slavery offenders being prosecuted in the same year, while there was a 40% rise in victims being referred for support.

This led to Theresa May giving the battle against modern slavery a £33m boost last month. 

She also bolstered her intentions in an article in The Telegraph​, in which she said: "We need a radically new, comprehensive approach to defeating this vile and systematic international business model at its source and in transit."

Hospitality sector scrutinised

The foodservice and hospitality industry will come under scrutiny in coming months, according to Andy Tyson, co-founder and director of Trade Interchange – a provider of supplier management software for foodservice companies.

“After the uncertainty of Brexit, it is good to see that our new Prime Minister is totally committed to the eradication of modern slavery, and not only will the act remain in place, it is clearly going to be policed strongly,” he said.

“It is more important than ever for operators and groups to ensure they are compliant and have the right management tools in place – as, no doubt, those caught will be facing the consequences.”

Supply chain

There will be particular focus on the rigour within its supply chain, especially in areas where the labour provenance may be hard to track, such as sub-contractors and casual labour on an international scale. 

The act introduced a 'transparency in supply chain provisions' clause, which requires businesses in the UK, with a turnover in excess of £36m, to disclose the steps they are taking to stamp out modern slavery – including in their supply chain.

Tyson continued: “The first thing we advise at Trade Interchange, in preparation for the modern slavery statement, is that operators make sure that their supply chain is fully monitored. This highlights potential risks and current problems that can be addressed and loopholes promptly closed.

“Just as Britain took a historic stand to ban slavery two centuries ago, Britain will continue to defeat modern slavery and operators need to ensure their supply chains are up to scratch.”