UK Government Blocks GB Energy From Using Solar Panels Linked to Chinese Slave Labour

Britain's state-owned company, Great British Energy, will be barred from using solar panels linked to alleged forced labor involving Uyghur Muslims in China, following a reversal in government policy. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband will introduce an amendment to ensure GB Energy's supply chains are free from modern slavery and human trafficking, after pressure from both Labour and Conservative MPs and international observers. The decision comes amid concerns over China's dominance in the solar panel market and the prevalence of polysilicon sourced from Xinjiang, where forced labor has been alleged. While the move is seen as a victory for human rights and welcomed by campaigners, it raises concerns about potential challenges and costs for the UK's net-zero ambitions due to heavy reliance on Chinese imports. The policy shift aligns the UK with similar actions by other countries, such as the U.S. ban on imports linked to forced labor, and signals a commitment to developing ethical, resilient supply chains. Critics from the opposition have described the move as a 'humiliating U-turn,' but supporters argue it is necessary to ensure the green transition does not come at the expense of human rights.