The UK government has pledged to tackle forced labour in supply chains after a Commons vote removed protections from the Great British Energy bill. MPs struck down a Lords amendment barring GB Energy from purchasing solar materials linked to modern slavery, passing the motion 314 to 198.
Concerns center on China’s dominance in polysilicon production, particularly in Xinjiang, where human rights abuses against Uyghurs are reported. Energy Security Minister Michael Shanks vowed to strengthen efforts, including cross-governmental meetings and an ethics-focused GB Energy executive.
Critics argue existing laws, like the Procurement Act, are insufficient as they only target convicted companies, a rare occurrence given China’s stance. Some Labour MPs advocate stricter policies, demanding companies prove they have no ties to forced labour. The debate highlights the challenge of balancing economic and ethical concerns in renewable energy.
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