Press release | CARE has expressed disappointment after the UK Government failed to provide greater support to victims of modern slavery under contentious immigration proposals.

This evening, the Government whipped MPs to oppose an amendment to the Nationality and Borders Bill from Tory Peer Lord McColl. It was defeated by a margin of 291 votes to 214.

If MPs had supported the change, the bill would have included a new clause guaranteeing 12 months of statutory support for all confirmed victims of modern slavery in England and Wales, and temporary immigration leave for victims who needed it to access this support.

Lauren Agnew, trafficking policy expert at the charity CARE, commented:

“We are dismayed that tonight the government opposed a vital amendment guaranteeing support for some of the most vulnerable people in our society – victims of trafficking and modern slavery.

“This proposal was agreed in the Lords, following spirited campaigning by expert groups in the trafficking sector. It was sensible, compassionate, and necessary. The amendment would have guaranteed vital support which evidence shows victims need to enable them to rebuild their lives following exploitation.

“Last week the Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner urged the Government to give ‘serious consideration’ to Lord McColl’s amendment. It is deeply regrettable that they failed to do so, undermining victim recovery.

“We sincerely hope for a change in heart before this bill reaches the statute book.”