In 1807, the Parliament of the UK passes an the Slave Trade Act which banned slaves being imported into and traded in England, but it did not prohibit slavery or affect current slave owners within England. This act was one step closer to the abolishment of slavery in England and Europe generally. Slavery would remain legal in England until the passing of the Slavery Abolition Act in 1833. Although this act most likely had no direct effect on Austen or her family, this act had a large impact on the gentry and upper class in England during Austen's life, and perhaps impacted wealthy family members. 

“Slave Trade Act 1807.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 21 Aug. 2022, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slave_Trade_Act_1807.