The UK Government's small boats bill poses a threat to modern slavery victims in Scotland, CARE for Scotland has warned.

The charity wrote to MSPs ahead of a Scottish Government debate on the Illegal Migration Bill this afternoon.

A briefing explains why the Westminster government's plans, as drafted, could "penalise genuine victims" and undermine victim support.

Michael Veitch, CARE for Scotland Parliamentary Officer, said:

“As drafted, the UK Government’s small boats plans pose a threat to modern slavery victims across the UK. Foreign nationals who are trafficked are likely to be in the country illegally. The Bill would penalise genuine victims, who may be in the UK without their consent. They will continue to be referred into the National Referral Mechanism (NRM) but receive none of its safeguarding protections unless they are able to help police or prosecutors.

“Before the law changes, it is possible that fewer people will enter the NRM because of fear about the future. They would not get the support they need, nor will their evidence be available for prosecutions. Individuals referred now may get support removed at some later date, eliminating the security victims need for recovery. Once the Bill has passed, without support and stability vulnerable individuals face returning straight back into the situations of abuse.

“While some victims might be willing to help the police, evidence suggests it is only after victims feel safe and stable, they engage with the police. The proposals brought forward by the UK government have been met with staunch warnings from the trafficking sector. We urge the Scottish Government and every party at Holyrood to speak up for the vulnerable and work with Westminster colleagues to tackle unjust elements of the small boats bill."

ENDS

Notes for Editors

Christian Action Research and Education (CARE) provides social policy analysis from a Christian perspective. CARE has worked closely with politicians on the development of modern slavery legislation.

Read a recent comment piece on the small boats plans: New Illegal Migration Bill could endanger victims of modern slavery (politicshome.com)

To request an interview, contact: press@care.org.uk