Dedicated modern day slavery legislation in Jersey

WQ.48/2026

WRITTEN QUESTION TO THE MINISTER FOR JUSTICE AND HOME AFFAIRS BY DEPUTY B.B. DE S.V.M. PORÉE OF ST. HELIER SOUTH

QUESTION SUBMITTED ON MONDAY 16th FEBRUARY 2026

ANSWER TO BE TABLED ON MONDAY 23rd FEBRUARY 2026

Question

"Further to the Government's statement on 9th February 2026 confirming its intention to introduce dedicated modern day slavery legislation in Jersey, will the Minister advise –

1. what immediate policy or operational improvements have been, or will be, implemented to strengthen existing protections for migrant workers and whether those improvements include a whistle-blowing service for migrant workers;
2. what has been included within the additional support measures to which her statement referred;
3. what steps, if any, her department has taken to begin the development of the proposed legislation, including any consultation with frontline services, employers, charities, or migrant workers; and
4. when she expects the draft legislation to be brought to the Assembly?"

Answer

1. The Government of Jersey is committed to ensuring that existing protections for migrant workers are upheld whilst work to bring forward dedicated modern day slavery legislation is progressed. Law enforcement agencies, including the States of Jersey Police and the Customs and Immigration Service, continue to respond, investigate and take any action necessary, where concerns are raised or potential breaches of existing legislation are identified.

A whistle-blowing service is not currently under consideration; however, the International Cultural Centre (ICC') offers a confidential and personalised service offering supporting and guidance for people arriving and living in Jersey. The Customs and Immigration Service and States of Jersey Police also have existing confidential methods for people to report concerns. A review of the existing work permit policy will be undertaken to ensure it remains fit for purpose and with the necessary protections for workers who may be vulnerable to exploitation.

2. The ICC supports the public, particularly those from different cultural or international backgrounds, with confidential assistance  on a  range of matters  including employment, housing, health and immigration.
3. Officers from Jersey Customs & Immigration, Building a Safer Community, and Cabinet Office are developing options, including conducting an analysis of current legislation, relevant UK legislation, and perceived gaps in the Jersey legal framework. Officers are also considering how we can best conduct engagement with frontline services, employers, charities and migrant workers, to ensure that it is meaningful and sensitive. I have had some initial conversations with charity representatives and look forward to furthering those discussions.
4. Since 2024, the legislative change needed to define and prosecute Modern Slavery was prioritised into the Government's legislative development pool'. This meant that it could receive policy and drafting time in any quieter periods during the work on the Violence Against Women and Girls legislation. With the lodging of that legislation now complete, this will allow concerted efforts to finalise the policy and commence law drafting from now and throughout the Summer. I have been informed by my officials that it is not possible to provide a detailed timescale at this stage, until further work has been completed to agree its scope. Nevertheless, I recommend that it is a priority for the new Council of Ministers once they are formed in July.