Two Moray Labour Councillors have raised concerns about reports of forced labour in the manufacture of solar panels.

At today’s meeting of Moray Council, it was announced that plans are being drawn up for the Council to install solar panels on their buildings. 

Councillor Ben Williams (Fochabers Lhanbryde) welcomed the news, but warned of forced labour in the solar panel manufacturing industry, citing reports from the trade union UNISON, as well as the Centre for Strategic and International Studies.

During the meeting, Councillor Williams said:

“The issue of forced labour within the solar panel manufacturing industry is one that has become more and more prevalent. Reports from both UNISON Trade Union and the Centre of Strategic and International Studies confirm such facts. 

Can I ask whether there is any screening process in mind when it comes to the procurement of such materials in order to ensure that Moray Council is not complicit in forced labour?”

He was joined by Councillor Sandy Keith (Elgin North), who raised the point that Scottish Water had been reported to have used solar panels that were the product of forced labour.

Council officers responded that this would be taken into consideration as they proceed with plans.