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<p> </p><p>The Modern Slavery Bill will enable us to strengthen our response to human
<br>trafficking and modern slavery for both adults and children. We announced in <br>January
our intention to trial specialist independent advocates for victims of <br>child trafficking.</p><p>23
local authorities that represent a wide demographic range as well as major <br>transport
hubs and asylum screening units have agreed to participate in the <br>trial. These
areas also have the highest rates of trafficking referrals to the <br>National Referral
Mechanism or are areas where we are aware of a high number of <br>trafficking investigations
by law enforcement agencies.</p><p>We are currently considering bids from a number
of voluntary and community <br>services organisations that were identified as potential
providers of the <br>advocacy service because of the particular expertise they hold.
When the trial <br>goes live we will invite a number of relevant stakeholders, including
<br>non-governmental organisations, to inform the project through a consultative <br>group.</p><p>We
have to consider this matter following the passing in the Lords of an <br>amendment
to the Immigration Bill that has put on hold our proposals for these <br>trials.</p><p>
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