The Guardian report that a British company has been found liable for the first time for victims of modern slavery in a landmark high court judgment which ruled that the workers were owed compensation. The judge found in favour of six Lithuanian men who were trafficked to the UK and brought a civil case claiming compensation for being exploited by the Kent-based gangmaster firm that employed them. The men were sent by the company to catch chickens on farms around the country. They worked frequently on farms producing eggs for the leading supplier to major supermarkets. The judge ruled that the men were owed compensation for the firm’s failure to pay the agricultural minimum wage, for the charging of prohibited work-finding fees, for unlawfully withholding wages, and for depriving the workers of facilities to wash, rest, eat and drink. The article highlights that it should be seen as a warning that businesses need to make sure modern slavery is eradicated from their supply chains.

Content Note

The aim is to provide summary information and comment on the subject areas covered. In particular, where employment tribunal and appellate court cases are reported, the information does not set out full details of all the facts, the legal arguments presented by the parties and the judgments made in every aspect of the case. Click on the links provided to access full details. If no link is provided contact us for further information. Employment law is subject to constant change either by statute or by interpretation by the courts. While every care has been taken in compiling this information, SM&B cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Specialist legal advice must be taken on any legal issues that may arise before embarking upon any formal course of action.