First Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner for UK

Implementing Modern Slavery Bill in UK

Kevin Hyland, former head of the Metropolitan Police’s world renowned Human Trafficking Unit, has been appointed as the first independent UK Anti-Slavery Commissioner.  The creation of an Independent Commissioner is one of the main provisions of the landmark Modern Slavery Bill, currently going through Parliament.  Mr Hyland will act as designate Commissioner until the Bill achieves Royal Assent, expected to be next year. His work will complement the already existing role of Victims’ Commissioner. Home Secretary Theresa May said: “The Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner will play a crucial role in driving improvements in the law enforcement response to modern slavery and the protection of victims.”

Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner Kevin Hyland said: ““I have seen first hand how modern slavery can devastate lives and rid people of their dignity and humanity. I am proud to take up this position to work in the interests of these brave victims and to prevent more people becoming victims in the first place.”

The Commissioner will have a UK-wide remit, ensuring that modern slavery issues are tackled in a coordinated and effective manner across the whole of the UK. He will work closely with law enforcement agencies, local authorities and third sector organisations to encourage good practice in the identification of victims and the prevention, detection, investigation and prosecution of modern slavery crimes, including international collaboration.  The Commissioner will act strongly in the interests of victims – and potential victims – by making sure that the law enforcement response to modern slavery is focused, coordinated and effective. (Photo: BBC News UK)