Traffickers face life in prison under new Scottish law

Traffickers face life in prison under a new law approved by the Scottish Parliament yesterday.

The Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Scotland) Bill is said to “clarify” criminal law by introducing a new single human trafficking offence and guaranteeing support and assistance for victims.

The bill also sets out how victims of trafficking who are forced to commit crime as a “direct result” of their victim status should be prosecuted.

It says the Lord Advocate “must issue and publish instructions about the prosecution” of a potential human trafficking victim, which must “include factors to be taken into account or steps to be taken by the prosecutor when deciding whether to prosecute”.

It also puts a duty on the Scottish government to develop and maintain a “Scottish Trafficking and Exploitation Strategy” in conjunction with others.

Justice Secretary Michael Matheson said: “Victims of human trafficking and exploitation can face horrendous suffering and there is no place for it in modern society.

“That is why I am delighted that the new laws introduced by this government will protect those subjected to these terrible crimes while ensuring those who seek to peddle human misery face the toughest possible penalties.

“Scotland’s law enforcement agencies now have greater tools in their armoury to bring those responsible for human trafficking and exploitation to justice.

“Previously, criminal law against trafficking and exploitation was spread across different legislation but our new law will provide consistency and give our police and prosecutors a clearer set of guidelines around how to track down and prosecute criminals.”

Mr Matheson added: “We know, however, that legislation alone will not help to identify potential victims. That’s why, alongside these new laws, we’re also developing a Trafficking and Exploitation Strategy and building on the work already undertaken to increase public awareness, training for front-line staff and engagement with businesses to help spot the signs of potential trafficking and exploitation.

“Ultimately, our collective efforts are sending a strong signal that Scotland is a hostile place for those who seek to peddle human misery. We simply will not tolerate the trafficking and exploitation of vulnerable adults and children in this country.”