Human Trafficking (Sentencing) Bill

Key Points

• Sets out penalties for human trafficking offences, potentially including higher sentences or minimum terms
• Focuses on sentencing rules rather than creating new offences or expanding police powers
• Currently at the second reading in the House of Commons, progressing through Parliament
• Part of the government’s approach to deter trafficking and better protect victims
• Will affect how courts, prosecutors and support organisations apply and enforce sentences

Progress

The bill is at its second reading in the House of Commons; after this stage it would typically move to committee stage, then report stage and third reading in the Commons, before consideration by the House of Lords.