JCHR publishes government response on forced labour in UK supply chains
The Joint Committee on Human Rights (JCHR) has published its Fifth Special Report of Session 2024–25 on forced labour in UK supply chains, prompting a formal government response coordinated by the Department for Business and Trade. The government affirms its opposition to forced labour and outlines an ongoing cross-Whitehall review of responsible business conduct to evaluate current frameworks, including the Modern Slavery Act 2015, and to consider stronger due diligence, import controls, and enforcement mechanisms. It highlights coordinated departmental roles, the creation of the Fair Work Agency by 2026, and potential reforms to modern slavery reporting duties. The response also addresses trade policy, procurement, and sector-specific actions—such as ethical sourcing in Great British Energy and the forthcoming Critical Minerals Strategy—while noting that detailed legislative or regulatory changes will await the outcome of the review. The government further commits to international cooperation, proportionate obligations for small businesses, and enhanced non-judicial remedies through the new Office for responsible business conduct, while choosing to engage existing survivor advisory structures rather than form a new council.