UK Government Faces Backlash Over Green Energy Ties to Uyghur Forced Labour

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The UK government may soon face parliamentary defeat regarding a crucial amendment aimed at curbing public investments in green energy linked to forced labour in Xinjiang, China. As many as 40% of the key raw material, polysilicon, used in solar panels is produced in the region, where the Uyghur population has reportedly faced arbitrary detention and forced labour, according to a report by The Guardian.

The amendment, introduced by cross-bench peer David Alton, seeks to ensure that no public funds are spent on materials where credible evidence of modern slavery exists in the supply chain. The Conservative and Liberal Democrat parties have signaled support, increasing the likelihood of its passage.

Alton emphasized the need for the energy transition to align with human rights commitments, arguing that public money should not support the Chinese government’s practices of modern slavery. Meanwhile, concerns linger within the Labour party, where some MPs may resist retraction of protections against modern slavery.

Calls to strengthen the UK's Modern Slavery Act have also emerged, reflecting a growing demand for clearer safeguards in the face of ongoing controversies involving companies with ties to forced labour.

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