Labour MPs may remove forced labor protections in energy bill

Labour MPs in the UK are considering removing a clause from a bill that would prevent companies linked to forced labour from receiving public money. This clause was added to the Great British Energy bill in February and aims to block any companies found to have used forced labour in their supply chains. Labour MP Alex Sobel is proposing an amendment to strengthen the measure. This amendment would allow an independent anti-slavery commissioner to decide if there is credible evidence of forced labour. The idea has support from the anti-slavery commissioner, but it is causing concerns in the Foreign Office. The government is focused on improving relations with China, which is a major supplier of solar panels. There are ongoing worries that Chinese-manufactured solar panels, which Great British Energy might purchase, could be made using forced labour from the Uyghur population. China denies these allegations. Labour ministers say that existing laws already require Great British Energy to eliminate slavery from its supply chain. They also mention a task force dedicated to tackling the issue. Eleanor Lyons, the anti-slavery commissioner, expressed concern that the UK is losing its leadership in combating modern slavery. A recent report highlighted the risk of the UK becoming a market for goods made with forced labour, particularly from regions like Xinjiang in China. Sobel emphasized that the UK must ensure its solar supply chains are free from slavery. He believes it is crucial for both human rights and national security. The amendment in question received support from Conservative MPs and was previously passed in the House of Lords. A former Conservative minister noted that the UK's Modern Slavery Act requires companies to ensure their supply chains are responsible. He argued that the amendment would not create unnecessary hurdles for investment but would protect taxpayer money from funding exploitation. Labour has previously supported actions against China regarding its treatment of Uyghurs. However, Foreign Secretary David Lammy has called for practical engagement with China. He emphasized the need to balance trade relations while maintaining national security.