Sadiq Khan to appoint Modern Slavery Ambassador for Hackney

London’s mayor Sadiq Khan announced the new role last week.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan is to appoint a Modern Slavery Ambassador for Hackney.

Khan made the announcement during Mayor’s Question Time last week in response to a query from local London Assembly member Jennette Arnold.

Arnold had asked the Mayor how the Metropolitan Police is tackling the “cruel practice” of modern slavery.

The ambassador is yet to be chosen, but whoever fills the role will support police officers by ensuring they have the skills to deal with slavery in the borough effectively.

Hackney’s London Assembly member Jennette Arnold

Arnold welcomed the move, saying: “Modern slavery devastates the lives of its victims and it should have no place in our society.

“This bold move marks a turning point in our approach that will help to stamp out this cruel practice in Hackney.”

Khan also revealed that 59 arrests have been made under the Modern Slavery Act so far this year, compared to 88 in 2016.

Jonatan Majewski was convicted of human trafficking last month. Photograph: Met Police

Since the legislation came into force in 2015, at least six cases have resulted in a conviction. That figure includes Hackney man Jonatan Majewski, who was convicted of human trafficking in September and handed an 18-month sentence.