GLA Prepares Annual Modern Slavery Statement Following Legislative Mandate
The Greater London Authority (GLA) has announced its intention to develop a comprehensive modern slavery statement in adherence to the requirements of the Modern Slavery Act 2015. This move underscores the GLA’s commitment to combating forced labour and human trafficking within its operations and supply chains.
Understanding the Modern Slavery Act 2015
Enacted to eradicate slavery, servitude, and human trafficking, the Modern Slavery Act 2015 mandates organisations with an annual turnover of £36 million or more to produce a modern slavery statement. This document outlines measures taken to ensure that supply chains remain free from modern slavery and must be updated annually, published on the organisation’s website, and linked from its homepage.
GLA’s Approach to Compliance
For the upcoming year, the GLA plans to adopt a unified statement covering its operations, including GLA Holdings and GLA Land and Property Limited (GLAP). Although the GLA itself is not a commercial entity, this strategy reflects its strong commitment to tackling modern slavery while recognising the interrelatedness of its functions and those of its commercial subsidiaries. The GLA determined that its other subsidiaries do not meet the turnover threshold required for such statements.
Collaboration with Transport for London
The GLA’s modern slavery statement will align closely with that of Transport for London (TfL) and its subsidiaries. This alignment results from a shared procurement function between the two organisations and a mutual focus on addressing modern slavery in supply chains. The GLA and TfL have adopted a shared Responsible Procurement Policy, which aims to foster fair employment practices among its key objectives.
Implementation Plans and Training
Supporting the Responsible Procurement Policy is the Responsible Procurement Implementation Plan (RPIP) 2022-24, which outlines essential actions to fulfil the commitments established by this policy. This plan aims to create a framework for addressing modern slavery and will undergo updates within the year.
Statement Content and Approval Process
The content of these modern slavery statements is not fixed by law, allowing organisations some flexibility in their approach. The GLA’s upcoming statement will detail various elements, including:
- The GLA’s mission and the nature of its supply chains
- Policies designed to mitigate modern slavery risks
- Specific efforts in due diligence and risk management
- Training initiatives aimed at raising awareness
- Goals set for the period 2025-2026
On 21 July 2025, the draft TfL Slavery Statement, which serves as a foundation for the GLA’s statement, received board approval to finalize its form.
Governance and Signatory Authority
GLA Holdings and GLAP Boards were informed about the ongoing preparation of the statement during their meetings on 7 July 2025, authorising any director to finalise it. The Executive Director of Housing and Land, serving as a director for both companies, will sign off on the finalised documents. Meanwhile, the GLA’s own statement will be approved by the Executive Director of Corporate Resources and Business Improvement under delegated authority.
Conclusion
This proactive approach by the GLA showcases its dedication to addressing modern slavery within its operations and highlights the importance of transparency in combating this critical issue. As the UK continues to confront challenges related to human trafficking and exploitation, the GLA’s actions reflect a broader commitment to social responsibility and ethical governance.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.london.gov.uk/dd2760-modern-slavery-statement-2024-25
