Margaret Ritchie, SDLP MP for South Down, has called on the Home Office to investigate following a report alleging trousers bought in Belfast contained a cry-for-help letter claiming workers were enduring slave labour conditions in the Chinese prison where they were manufactured.
Ms Ritchie stated: “If proved genuine, this shocking letter tells us disturbing details about the origin of clothes many people purchase from the high street. The allegations detailing the working conditions are appalling and they should give us all cause to think twice the next time we go shopping.
“The British government has a clear responsibility to investigate such claims. If China is to continue to be part of the world economy, such labour conditions must not be tolerated. While it is to be welcomed that a Modern Slavery Bill is being brought forward, there are real concerns that this will be too narrowly focused on the UK and will inadequately address wider global issues.
“This incident in Northern Ireland, together with recent reports about the widespread practice of slavery within the prawn industry and last year’s Rana Plaza tragedy, demonstrate the need for urgent action. This issue can no longer be ignored and needs to be confronted and challenged immediately.
“There is also a responsibility for Primark to investigate this incident, and I am glad that they have indicated that they intend to do so. It is also crucial for the wider retail industry to make every effort to eradicate any form of slavery, forced labour or inadequate working conditions from their supply chain. Customers should demand this and the British government should make sure that such practices become a thing of the past. “I have raised this very serious matter with the Home Office,” said Ms Ritchie, adding: “No employer anywhere should have a workforce subjected to abuse and be allowed to profit from that.”]]>
