NCA failure to investigate imports linked to forced Uyghur labour unlawful, court rules

Lawyers and representatives from the World Uyghur Congress and the Uyghur community in 2022. The court’s judgment means the NCA will have to reconsider its decision not to investigate. Photograph: Tom Pilgrim/PA

The UK National Crime Agency’s decision not to launch an investigation into the importation of cotton products manufactured by forced labour in China’s Xinjiang province was unlawful, the court of appeal has found.

Global Legal Action Network (GLAN) and the World Uyghur Congress (WUC), which brought the action, said Thursday’s decision was a landmark win that could lead to high street retailers being prosecuted under the Proceeds of Crime Act (Poca) if they import goods made through forced labour.