Source · Select Committees · Home Affairs Committee
Recommendation 1
1
Rejected
Paragraph: 27
Government prioritises irregular migration at the expense of tackling human trafficking.
Conclusion
We are deeply concerned that the Government is prioritising irregular migration issues at the expense of tackling human trafficking. The Government’s de- prioritisation of human trafficking is not reflective of the scale of the threat it poses or the gravity of the crimes involved. As was expressed by several stakeholders, human trafficking and modern slavery is not an immigration offence (an offence against the State), it is an exploitation offence (an offence against the individual).
Government Response Summary
The government rejects the committee's premise of de-prioritising human trafficking, stating it is right to tackle both modern slavery and migration together. They highlight their commitment to identifying and supporting victims, noting that over 10,000 people received support through the Modern Slavery Victim Care Contract in the year ending June 2023.
Paragraph Reference:
27
Government Response
Rejected
HM Government
Rejected
15. As set out in the introduction, given the close links between modern slavery and migration, with around three-quarters of potential victims being subject to immigration controls from January to September 20222, it is right that the Home Office tackles both together. Our Ministers work together closely to balance the need to ensure the UK maintains secure borders and public order, whilst providing victims of crime with appropriate support. 16. The Government remains committed to identifying victims of modern slavery, both UK and foreign nationals, and providing appropriate support where necessary. A total of 10,704 people received support through the Modern Slavery Victim Care Contract (MSVCC) during the year ending June 2023, the largest number supported for any year since the contract began.