New Zealand is about to have fit-for-purpose modern slavery legislation, with National and Labour working together to make it happen, National MP for Maungakiekie Greg Fleming says.
“This issue is close to my heart, and I’ve been working on this legislation since I came to Parliament. Camilla Belich and I have agreed to co-sponsor the Modern Slavery Bill, meaning that it will bypass the biscuit tin.
“It’s time that New Zealand has a coordinated framework to deal with modern slavery, and this bill does just that.
“It will require large organisations to publicly report on modern slavery risks and incidents in their operations and supply chains.
“It introduces fines of up to $200,000 for companies that refuse to report or publish false or misleading statements, including civil penalties of up to $600,000, public naming, and potential liability for directors and senior managers.
“The bill also strengthens reporting to Parliament on investigations, prosecutions and victim support, and prevents public funds being paid to entities that breach the Act.
“I am looking forward to the Select Committee process, where we can engage with affected groups to create a future-proofed piece of legislation.”