Recent legislation in the UK would indicate that the government takes labour exploitation and abuse seriously and wants to tackle it. The creation of a new Director of Labour Market Enforcement, and the expanded powers of the Gangmasters Labour Abuse Authority offer hopeful signs that there will be better investigation, enforcement and regulation of companies and labour providers to prevent workers from being abused and exploited.
But when can we actually expect to see fewer cases of modern slavery? Are responsible companies more confident that the government is creating a level playing field? Is the government cracking down on unscrupulous businesses when they take advantage of vulnerable workers to maximize their profits?
And as the GLAA’s powers expand, what new roles and responsibilities should there be for the government, companies, NGOs and trade unions?
Our speakers are experts in the field and will explore current issues, highlight dilemmas and share examples of what is working and why, and where gaps should be filled. Come ready for a challenging debate and discussion over breakfast.
Our speakers
Paul Broadbent, CEO, Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority
The Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA) works in partnership with industry, government and enforcement bodies to protect vulnerable and exploited workers, by preventing worker exploitation, protecting vulnerable people, tackling unlicensed or criminal activity and ensuring those licensed operate within the law. Paul will discuss the recent changes in the GLAA and the new operating environment with the creation of the new Directorate for Labour Market Enforcement. He will illustrate key lessons from intelligence and set out some of the challenges around regulation and enforcement.
Matthew Creagh, Policy Officer, Trades Union Congress
The Trades Union Congress (TUC) is a national trade union centre, representing the majority of trade unions in England and Wales, with the objective of raising the quality of working life and promoting equality for all. They represent more than 5.6 million workers in 50 unions. Matt will talk about TUC’s perspective on the new regulations and discuss opportunities how trade unions can help strengthen the impact of regulation and reduce the risks of exploitation.
Caroline Robinson, Policy Director, Focus on Labour Exploitation
Founded in 2013, Focus on Labour Exploitation (FLEX) is a leader in the field of human trafficking for labour exploitation. It works to prevent labour abuses, protect the rights of trafficked persons and promote best practice through research, advocacy and awareness raising. Caroline will highlight good practice and illustrate the case to strenghten legislation.
About Ethical Insights
ETI's Ethical Insights Series create a safe, open space where we can air challenges, share ideas and learn from one another. We want to generate a spirit of knowledge collaboration to improve the impact of all our efforts.
At the end of each session, we'll have a 10-minute 'open mike' for you to share news and propose ideas for future topics.
"A full room of like-minded people and good speakers: an opportunity to brainstorm new solutions for ethical trading."
“The format worked really well in encouraging an open dialogue for all participants.”
Attendees from a previous Ethical Insights event
Join us over coffee and croissants at the ETI office in Farringdon.