Reed Welcomes Publication on Eliminating Slavery

Andy Reed, MP for Loughborough, has welcomed the publication by the Department for International Development: “Breaking the Chains: eliminating slavery, ending poverty”. The booklet highlights the plight of poor men, women and children who are trafficked into the UK to work in slave-like conditions.

2007 marks the 200th anniversary of the passing of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act. The Bicentenary offers an important opportunity to raise awareness of contemporary forms of slavery. Andy is keen to raise awareness of modern-day slavery and to encourage people to join together to condemn it and work hard to eliminate slavery in all its forms.

The Home Office estimates that 4000 women are trafficked into the UK annually for prostitution. There is growing concern about the number of people, including children, trafficked for forced labour in other sectors including domestic service, construction and agriculture.

Hilary Benn, Secretary of State for International Development, said:

“Human trafficking and contemporary slavery are part of the greatest moral challenge today – to end global poverty. And that is what this Government is pledged to do.”

Reed said:

“In addition to providing a useful resource for tackling the problem of modern-day slavery, this publication also shows that the Government is taking seriously the issue of human trafficking.”

“Poverty and social exclusion are at the root of most forms of slavery today and the fight against contemporary slavery must continue.”

“I will continue to promote the work of the Government to put an end to the trade in human beings and encourage everyone to get involved in campaigning on this vital issue.”