I presented my first ever ten-minute rule bill this month to ban the sickening trade in human remains. From shrunken heads to wallets made of “human leather,” most would be shocked to discover people buying and selling human body parts in this way and on this scale. They would be even more shocked to discover that there is nothing illegal about this, even though most sellers couldn’t tell you where the remains they are selling came from or whether they were acquired with consent.

As I set out in Parliament, we urgently need legislation to close this loophole and ban this macabre trade for good. I was glad to see my bill clear its first hurdle unopposed and generate some media coverage of this little known but very disturbing issue. Whilst ten minute rule bills rarely pass, they are a useful way of shining light on an issue to create greater impetus for action. I have also set up a petition to keep pushing for action on this issue. Please do sign it if you are able to.