Overview

This bill aims to establish a network of secure safe houses in England and Wales for children who are believed to be victims of human trafficking. It mandates the Secretary of State to create these houses and issue guidance to local authorities on their responsibilities.

Description

The Human Trafficking (Child Protection) Bill amends the Modern Slavery Act 2015. It introduces a new section (48A) requiring the Secretary of State to create a network of secure safe houses for children reasonably believed to be victims of human trafficking. The Secretary of State will also create regulations governing these safe houses and provide guidance to local authorities on managing their responsibilities related to the safe houses. A report detailing the progress and future plans regarding this initiative must be presented to Parliament within one year of the bill's enactment. The bill applies only to England and Wales and comes into force upon being passed.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify exact figures for government spending. However, significant financial resources will be required to establish and maintain a network of secure safe houses, including costs for building or leasing the facilities, staffing, and providing necessary support services for the children. Further expenditure will be associated with the development of regulations and guidance, as well as the production of the parliamentary report.

Groups Affected

• Children who are victims of human trafficking: These children will directly benefit from the provision of secure safe houses.
• Local authorities: They will have increased responsibilities in identifying and supporting children in these safe houses, requiring additional resources and training.
• The Secretary of State: They will be responsible for establishing and overseeing the network of safe houses, incurring administrative and financial burdens.
• Taxpayers: They will ultimately bear the cost of establishing and maintaining the network of safe houses.

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