Bishop of Derby’s response to Modern Slavery Bill Announcement
(From the website of the Diocese of Derby)
5th June 2014
The Bishop of Derby, The Rt Revd Dr Alastair Redfern has commented on the Modern Slavery Bill announced in the Queen’s speech at the opening of parliament.
Dr Redfern said:
“I am delighted that Her Majesty’s Government is committed to bringing forward a Modern Slavery Bill.Slavery is a major issue across the globe, and is prevalent in our own country – in workplaces, the sex trade, domestic labour and organ transplant arrangements. It is a sign of how easily vulnerable people can be exploited.
Such a serious crime requires legislation which will clarify our definitions of slavery, exploitation and human trafficking; provide support and help for victims; and encourage a proper partnership between the statutory agencies such as the police and the local authority, and voluntary groups who can provide the care and attention so desperately needed.”
He added:
“I look forward to participating in the debates in Parliament which will shape this important legislation, and put our country at the forefront of the fight against slavery. In Derby on 23rd June, we are holding a major summit to explore how we can best respond locally to the challenges this criminal trade is creating.”
The Bishop of Derby is a member of the Parliamentary Joint Select Committee who published the report and draft Modern Slavery Bill.
The Summit (to be held at St Peter’s Church, Derby on Monday 23rd June) is a reflection of that work and aims to provide a link between charities, councils, police, law practitioners, business and the Church to enable joined up thinking and partnership.
The programme includes local perspectives from Derbyshire police and charities working in the area with Keynote speaker Detective Inspector Kevin Hyland from the Metropolitan Police Human Trafficking team.
For more information
The Church of England in Parliament 