Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the debate on 5 January (HL Deb, cols 596–7), what assessment they have made of proposals to address the effect that the public order disqualification threshold and time period of slavery and trafficking information notices will have on catching alleged perpetrators.
Answer
It is a priority for this government to increase prosecutions of perpetrators of modern slavery and the measures included within the Nationality and Borders Bill are designed to support these aims.
Through the Public Order Disqualification, we want to ensure the protection from removal and provision of support are not afforded to serious criminals and those who pose a national security threat, in line with our international obligations. Each decision is discretionary and will be taken on a case by case basis. This will mean that we do not lose the ability to provide a recovery period and/or make a conclusive grounds decision when it is beneficial to support prosecutions.
The Slavery or Trafficking Information Notice under Clause 57 supports our aim to identify victims early and ensure they receive appropriate support, and therefore better able to assist with investigative and enforcement activities. All referrals will be appropriately considered regardless of when they are brought to make sure that those who need protection are afforded it.
We are clear, that across both these measures, First Responders should still always refer victims into the National Referral Mechanism in line with Modern Slavery Statutory Guidance, using the online form even where the individual has had a previous recovery period or has a criminal conviction. In operationalising these clauses we will ensure this is abundantly clear.
This Government’s commitment to supporting victims is precisely why the Nationality and Borders Bill also makes clear that, where a public authority is pursuing an investigation or criminal proceedings, confirmed victims who are co-operating in this activity and need to remain in the UK in order to do so, will be granted a form of temporary leave to support this crucial endeavour. These measures build upon support and investment to strengthen the police response to modern slavery, including initiatives to help victims engage in the criminal justice system so more offenders can face justice.