Make modern day slavery a priority, says Assembly

A motion urging the Mayor to pursue his crusade against modern day slavery in London was unanimously agreed today by the London Assembly.

The joint efforts of the Mayor, Metropolitan Police Service, Government, the charity sector and the media to combat the practice were welcomed by the Assembly, but Members believe more needs to be done, because of the complexity of most cases and the public lack sympathy for the victims.

Jennette Arnold OBE AM, who proposed the motion said:

“I am pleased that today City Hall has recognised that tackling modern slavery needs to be a priority. Modern slavery devastates the lives of its victims and this motion sends a clear message that it should have no place in our city.

The Mayor’s decision to appoint a modern slavery ambassador in every borough is welcome. I will keep up the pressure to ensure that combatting this cruel practice remains a central part of the Mayor’s agenda, particularly when it comes to his work with London’s business community.”

The full text of the motion is:

“This Assembly notes with concern that modern day slavery persists in London. Modern day slavery is a crime that is both hidden and in plain sight. It can happen behind closed doors in private homes, in car washes, nail bars or in the supply chains of the goods and services we buy and use. While the details of this crime are diverse and complex, one common feature remains; the devastating impact on its victims.

We commend the work of the Mayor, Metropolitan Police Service, Government, the charity sector and the media to help combat modern day slavery and support victims of this barbaric crime. We welcome the Mayor’s pledge for a modern-day slavery ambassador for every London borough and urge him to ensure that this is pursued without exception.

Alongside this, we call on the Mayor to ensure that tackling modern day slavery is a priority for his work with London’s business community through the Good Work Standard.”