Source · Select Committees · Home Affairs Committee
Recommendation 45
45
Acknowledged
Paragraph: 139
Proactively consider evidence-led prosecutions for human trafficking, applying domestic abuse guidance.
Conclusion
It is the case that investigations into all forms of human trafficking should proactively consider an evidence-led prosecutions approach, with the CPS guidance on domestic abuse and evidential opportunities being transferable to human trafficking.
Government Response Summary
The government describes existing guidance and training provided by the CPS and the College of Policing.
Paragraph Reference:
139
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
125. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has a dedicated Modern Slavery Unit (MSU), which provides specialist advice and guidance to prosecutors handling modern slavery cases. The MSU also plays a key role in developing and delivering training to prosecutors and police officers on modern slavery offences and evidential issues. The CPS’s ‘Guidance on Prosecuting Human Trafficking Offences’ assists prosecutors in understanding the evidential and legal complexities of these cases. A thematic review of modern slavery prosecutions, carried out by Her Majesty’s Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate (HMCPSI) in 2019, recognised that the guidance was valued by prosecutors and contained relevant and helpful information for practitioners. 126. The College of Policing also provides training to police forces on modern slavery. Its Authorised Professional Practice (APP) guidance provides officers with practical advice on how to identify and respond to potential cases of modern slavery and human trafficking.