Modern Slavery in Food and Agriculture

“I don’t think anyone really knows the full scale of exploitation… it’s bigger than anyone ever realises.”

We held an in-person Business Forum meeting on 23 January 2024 on the subject of modern slavery.

Speakers were Elysia McCaffrey, Chief Executive of the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority, Mike Gidney, Chief Executive of the Fairtrade Foundation and Kate Roberts, Head of Policy at Focus on Labour Exploitation. This was followed by an online meeting to explore solutions on 6 February 2024.

The attached report captures insights that were shared and discussed at these meetings, including co-designed solutions and next steps for businesses to take.

Discussions were held under Chatham House rule, meaning that points remain anonymous and quotes are unattributed.