// Asos returns to House of Lords to co-host Modern Slavery event
// Aim is to seek pledges from third party retailers to tackle modern slavery
Asos has returned to the House of Lords after 12 months to co-host a Modern Slavery event with Baroness Lola Young in order to seek pledges from third party retailers to tackle the issue.
Following the inaugural session which took place last year that addressed shared risks in the apparel sector, the Modern Slavery forum is returning to review the progress made.
Executives from retailers Boohoo, Dr Martens, Fred Perry, Missguided, River Island and Marks and Spencer are expected to speak at the event.
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The House of Lords meeting takes place the same day Asos releases its annual Modern Slavery Statement in line with UK legislation.
“With a growing legislative focus on modern slavery, there’s never been a better time to act together to drive systemic change in the industry,” Asos chief executive Nick Beighton said.
“That’s why we’re calling on those present to join us in signing our pledge to tackle modern slavery and move beyond commitment to more concrete action and collaboration.”
River Island chief executive Ben Lewis said: “We are serious about tackling modern slavery so the pledge we have signed continues the work that we have already started with Asos in this area.”
“We encourage other brands to join us in eradicating human rights abuses in our supply chains.
Young said: “By doing this, they show that there is space for pre-competitive collaboration when it comes to ensuring human rights due diligence.
“I very much hope that other brands will follow suit.”
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