Modern Slavery (Victim Support) Bill [HL]: Briefing for Lords Stages

This House of Lords Library briefing provides information in support of the House of Lords consideration of the Modern Slavery (Victim Support) Bill [HL].

The Modern Slavery (Victim Support) Bill is a private member’s bill introduced by Lord McColl of Dulwich (Conservative). The Bill received its first reading in the House of Lords on 26 June 2017, and is scheduled to receive its second reading on 8 September 2017. The Bill proposes to amend the Modern Slavery Act 2015 to provide a statutory basis for support and assistance for potential victims of modern slavery during a reflection and recovery period of 45 days, and for a further period of twelve months following confirmation of their status as a victim of modern slavery. Clause 1 of the Bill would insert four new sections into the Modern Slavery Act 2015. Clause 2 would repeal section 50(1) of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and remove the power of the Secretary of State to make regulations regarding the provision of support and assistance to victims of modern slavery. Lastly, clause 3 states that the Bill would extend to England and Wales only (support for adult victims of modern slavery is a devolved matterⁱⁱ) and would come into force twelve months to the day after receiving royal assent.