Overview

This bill mandates a government review of penalties for human trafficking offences in England and Wales. The review will assess current sentencing practices, considering their effectiveness in protecting victims, prosecuting criminals, and reflecting the severity of these crimes. A report with recommendations will be submitted to Parliament within six months of the bill's passage.

Description

The Human Trafficking (Sentencing) Bill requires the Secretary of State to conduct a comprehensive review of penalties related to human trafficking. This review must assess:

• The adequacy of existing maximum penalties.
• The effectiveness of current sentencing guidelines.
• The potential for introducing minimum sentences for specific offences.
• Obstacles to the use of life sentences in human trafficking cases.
• The interplay between human trafficking prosecutions and those for associated organized crimes.
• The success of slavery and trafficking reparation, prevention, and risk orders.
• The appropriateness of suspended sentences for human trafficking offences.

The review must consult with victims of human trafficking and their representatives, as well as the Crown Prosecution Service. The definition of "human trafficking offences" includes offences under sections 1, 2, and 4 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015, encompassing the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring, or receipt of individuals through force, fraud, or deception for exploitation.

Government Spending

The bill itself doesn't specify any direct government spending figures. The cost will depend on the resources allocated to the review, including staff time, research, and consultation. Indirect costs may arise from potential legislative changes resulting from the review's recommendations.

Groups Affected

• Victims of human trafficking: The review aims to better protect them, potentially leading to improved support services and stronger legal protections.
• Organised criminals involved in human trafficking: The review may lead to harsher penalties and increased prosecution rates, impacting their sentencing and detention.
• The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS): The CPS will be involved in the review and may see changes to their practices based on its recommendations.
• The Judiciary: Judges will be affected by any changes in sentencing guidelines or legislation arising from the review.

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