PFCC candidates pledge to tackle modern slavery if elected

This comes after fifty-six civil society organisations called on the candidates to commit to fighting this crime, echoing a recommendation in the cross-party Home Affairs Select Committee report that “all Police and Crime Commissioners should actively consider setting modern slavery and human trafficking as a priority in their police and crime plans.”

Seventy five PCC and Metro Mayoral candidates across the country pledged their support.

"I have seen first-hand on too many occasions how modern slavery, people trafficking and the criminality that surrounds it destroys lives and families,” said David Allen, the Labour candidate.

David Allen (Image: Supplied)“It is, in my opinion, a disgusting stain on any civilised society. It has to be recognised, targeted and tackled at source and in the UK and its victims cared for.”

Modern slavery refers to various forms of exploitation and abuse of adults as well as children, including forced labour, sexual exploitation, domestic servitude and criminal exploitation– all of which have been identified throughout the UK.

Liberal Democrat candidate Adrian Waite called for improved prosecution and conviction rates.

"A belief in liberty is at the core of Liberal Democrat values and of my values,” said Mr Waite.

Adrian Waite (Image: Supplied)“Modern slavery is an affront to human liberty, and no one should ever be enslaved.

“We must bring an end to modern slavery and people trafficking, stop exploitation of vulnerable people and bring those responsible for modern slavery and people trafficking to justice.

“We must improve prosecution and conviction rates. We must also provide support and protection to the victims.”

Last year, the number of potential slavery victims referred to police for investigation in Cumbria increased.

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Home Office data reveals that Cumbria Constabulary handled 49 referrals concerning potential victims of modern slavery, including 21 children, in the year leading up to June.

Andrew Johnson (right) (Image: PFCC)This represents a rise from 26 referrals in the previous year.

Across the UK, more than 17,700 potential victims of modern slavery were referred to the Home Office in 2022-23 – a significant jump from 14,600 the year before.

Conservative Mike Johnson said, “I can confirm that I pledge to tackle modern slavery if I'm elected as the PFCC in Cumbria.”