Survivors of sexual violence could be wrongly denied recognition as victims of human trafficking under new credibility tests in a UK immigration and asylum bill, according to the independent anti-slavery commissioner, Eleanor Lyons.
Lyons stated that the measures are fundamentally unfair and could lead to many victims of slavery and trafficking, including those who allege abuse by Mohamed Al Fayed, being denied support. Under the proposed legislation, Home Office officials are required to view any delay in making a claim of modern slavery or human trafficking as damaging to credibility. Inaccuracies, inconsistencies, omissions in accounts, or striking similarities to other claims must also be considered reasons for disbelief.
Lyons highlighted that these credibility tests would harm survivors of sexual violence, who often experience memory loss due to trauma and may delay reporting exploitation due to fear of reprisals. She specifically noted concerns for those alleging abuse by Al Fayed, given the time passed since the alleged incidents, the similar ways in which some were allegedly exploited, and the potential impact of trauma on their recall.
Several women who allege sexual abuse by Fayed expressed fears that the new measures would undermine investigations into what they describe as his international trafficking network. Holly Johnson, who claims she was trafficked and sexually abused, called the tests re-victimising, particularly given the alleged specific strategy Fayed used for trafficking and assaulting women, leading to similar survivor stories.
The government states that the credibility tests aim to close opportunities for misusing the National Referral Mechanism (NRM), the system for identifying potential victims of modern slavery, and to accelerate the removal and deportation of illegal migrants. A Home Office spokesperson said the government is committed to identifying victims and providing support, adding that the bill's credibility considerations are "well-balanced and contain appropriate safeguards."