Question: Does the investor disclose in its modern slavery statement active engagement with investee companies on their (investee companies’) modern slavery/ labour exploitation/ human trafficking risks in value chains and business relationships?
Answer:
Yes
8958421
Walk Free
2020
Verified by Steward check_circle
updated over 2 years ago by Malene Hand

"As this relates to modern slavery concerns, it is our view that certain industries are naturally more exposed to risks or allegations ofmodern slavery than others. The most common industry risk factors include reliance on low-cost labor, and/or opaque and complexsupply chains. Industries where these risk factors are more common include engineering & construction, agriculture and apparelmanufacturing. We pay particular attention to modern slavery when researching companies in these industries. We will also research and evaluate any instance of modern slavery that may present itself in other industries, even if the common risk factors were not present.

 

In terms of our approach to due diligence, we evaluate company modern slavery disclosures, policies, and procedures and proactivelyengage management to understand how they think about these risks. This applies to new positions and existing positions in theportfolio where an allegation of modern slavery may appear during the course of ownership. As appropriate and where necessary, we engage management to understand the nature of the allegations and advocate for changes to a company’s actions.

 

Finally, some manifestations of ESG risk may not have a clear financial impact on earnings but are deemed material societal risks. In these cases, we approach the issues as we would material nancial risks. We consider child labor and/or involvement in humantracking as such a risk regardless of the impact on company earnings and therefore will engage management if instances orallegations of these activities exist. We plan to continually evaluate whether we should add additional issues to this list in the future."

 

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Malene Hand.....2021-12-16 19:15:55 UTC