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<p>We have been engaging with businesses and trade associations for some time, warning
of the risk of inadvertently facilitating human rights violations by directly or indirectly
providing goods and services to authorities in Xinjiang. Our new advice makes clear
that conducting due diligence in Xinjiang is challenging due to limits on access,
including for auditors; it being highly unlikely that workers will be able to speak
freely; and the extent and severity of human rights violations occurring there. Businesses
will need to consider these challenges when assessing whether, through due diligence,
they are able to ensure their operations do not directly or indirectly contribute
to human rights violations. It is for businesses to reassure themselves - and their
customers - that their activities in no way contribute to human rights violations
taking place in Xinjiang. The Foreign Secretary announced on 12 January that businesses
failing to comply with their transparency obligations under the Modern Slavery Act
will be penalised. We keep our policies and their impact under close review.</p>
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