Modern slavery statements, corporate disclosures and the potential to regulate false, misleading or incomplete statements

Section 54 of the modern slavery act (MSA) 2015 introduced a novel transparency in supply chains provision which has been emulated in other jurisdictions. However, in the UK , compliance with the publication of modern slavery statements has been patchy and uneven in content, covering the six suggested categories. There have also been questions about the effectiveness and veracity of statements made in the public facing document. This provision, which is an example of reflexive law evolves through co-operation, information-gathering, review, and reform. Therefore, it is important that the information gathered is reliable and verifiable. This article examines the scope for shaping compliance by regulating for false, misleading, or incomplete information which may result from inconsistencies in this type of narrative reporting.