Source · Select Committees · Foreign Affairs Committee
Recommendation 24
24
Paragraph: 49
The Government should issue guidance to business to implement modern means of traceability and product...
Recommendation
The Government should issue guidance to business to implement modern means of traceability and product origin verification as part of their due diligence measures.
Paragraph Reference:
49
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Government recognises the role that technology can play in improving the traceability of global supply chains and is working with businesses to build understanding and raise awareness of its potential use. In March, the Foreign Secretary, in her former capacity as Secretary of State for International Trade, hosted two roundtables on the issue of forced labour in Xinjiang, which discussed the role that technology can play in tackling human rights abuses. Our OBR guidance on Xinjiang also encourages businesses to collaborate with industry groups to share expertise and best practice in identifying and addressing risks of human rights violations. However, improved traceability must be coupled with effective traditional due diligence methods such as on-site audits and supply chain mapping. We will continue to engage businesses on this area, but do not currently have plans to issue further specific guidance on the topic.