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Call for the government to support Fairtrade

Published:  23 July, 2008

Harriet Lamb, executive director of the UK's Fairtrade Foundation, has called on the Government to support Fairtrade.

The move follows an [l=http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200607/cmselect/cmintdev/356/35602.htm]International Development report[/l] released by the House of Commons' International Development Committee earlier this month.

The report noted that the Government support for Fairtrade lags behind public support and it recommended "a much more proactive and strategic approach" to Fairtrade" and the allocation of long term resources.

Lamb said: "The public have embraced Fairtrade as a powerful idea, showing that you can and should manage markets for social and development goals.

"Companies and business have responded to consumer interest by offering more Fairtrade products.

"It is time for the Government to match the current momentum and - through funding, influence in international forums and government procurement - help take Fairtrade to the next level."

Guy Smith of Source Wines, an importer of Fairtrade wines, responded: "You have to welcome this sort of message but wait to see it translated in to meaningful action.

"I would welcome something along the lines of the CCT rebates that WOSA uses to promote South Afircan Wine. If something like this tax break occurred for Fairtrade then the government would be putting action behind the words."

Fairtrade wine has an estimated value of 5.68milion (up 68% over 2006) according to the Fairtrade Foundation UK.

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