PRESS RELEASE - In a statement on Anti-Slavery Day to coincide with the publication of the second annual report of the Inter-Departmental Ministerial Group on Human Trafficking the Home Secretary has announced that a maximum life sentence will be introduced for those who commit the most serious trafficking offences.

CARE’s Human Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation Policy Officer, Louise Gleich, responded to this news:

“The Home Secretary’s announcement is a bold step forward in the fight against those who trade in the lives of human beings. However, if this is to have any effect, then the number of convictions being achieved must be increased. Currently the amount of successful convictions remains woefully low.

It is also crucial that we do not obscure the needs of the victims of human trafficking in this debate. We strongly urge the Government to go beyond prosecution measures and set a new standard in protection, prevention, compensation and rehabilitation for the thousands of men women and children who are deceived, bullied, assaulted and oppressed for the financial gain and sexual gratification of others here in the UK and across Europe.”

Notes to Editors:

To read Louise’s full blog post, please click here

For media enquiries contact James Mildred on 07581 153693 email: james.mildred@care.org.uk