Local MP Supports Fairtrade Fortnight

9.1.04

New Commons motion calls on Blair to raise awareness of Free Trade

Local Liberal Democrat MP Edward Davey has backed a new Commons motion calling on the Government to raise awareness of the principles of fair trade and encouraging schools and local authorities and retailers to get involved in national Fairtrade fortnight that will take place from 1st - 14th March to mark 10 years of the FAIRTRADE mark.

Fairtrade challenges the conventional model of trade, and offers a progressive alternative for a sustainable future. Fairtrade empowers consumers to take responsibility for the role they play when they buy products from the third world. The new Commons motion, started on the 2nd February recognizes the differences we can make to Third World producers when towns and cities across the UK achieve Fairtrade status.

Edward Davey commented:

"I fully support this new Early Day Motion. I have many constituents that continue to contact me regarding this issue, and many feel very strongly that the government have a responsibility to promote goods with the Freetrade Mark."

"For 500,000 workers and farmers in the developing world, Fairtrade means better terms of trade and decent production conditions. The FAIRTRADE Mark, which applies to products rather than companies, aims to give disadvantaged small producers more control over their own lives, this is an initiative that deserves huge support and I urge my constituents to buy products with the Fairtrade Mark where ever possible."

"I will certainly be doing my best to support them and look forward to the coming events in Kingston and Surbiton during Fairtrade fortnight."