The European Commission’s long-awaited proposal for banning the import of goods made with forced labour or child labour, has arrived. After being promised in not one but two State of the Union speeches, it is overdue. The content, though, is well-judged and it is refreshing to see the Commission restraining its desire for centralisation, and instead presenting a proposal that will invite cooperation with Member States, and with external trade partners. The Commission’s media operation, especially from DG Trade, has made no secret of the fact that China’s ongoing labour violations in the Xinjiang region are a significant motivator of this regulation. Good: for too long some EU governments (we all know who they are) have prioritised exports to China rather than facing down the reality of the oppression meted out by the Communist Party state. The recognition that China is a human rights abuser and products from that supply chain should be banned, is welcome. China is not the only transgre...