Modern slavery: it happens here

Slowly but surely, British court cases are revealing a once great nation of abolitionists to be a shadow of its former self. We often celebrate the nineteenth century anti-slavery movement and its precious victory. We hail their achievement and honour our Parliament’s noblest hour.

But like weeds in a neglected garden, slavery has returned. Its roots remained intact – inherent in humanity’s darkest weaknesses. Today, it is aggressive and hidden. It lives in the shadows of Britain’s cities, towns and villages. And as this morning’s Centre for Social Justice report reveals, too often it thrives uncontested.

In the hands of international bureaucrats the problem has become better known as ‘human trafficking’. But just like ‘collateral damage’, these words mask the terror, injustice and nature of abuse inflicted on those who are its victims.