Fairtrade future as county signs up
On Monday March 6 2005 the following statement was issued by Lancashire County Council. The Leader of the Council and the Chief Executive pledged their commitment to becoming a Fairtrade County by signing a pledge document. This act was witnessed by members of the Preston & South Ribble Fairtrade Group, whose chairman also countersigned the document. This is a most significant step forward.
Workers in developing countries are set for a fairer deal following a Fairtrade pledge from Lancashire County Council.
Chris Trinick, Lancashire County Council's Chief Executive, and Hazel Harding, Leader of the county council, have signed a resolution supporting Fairtrade products.
The resolution is a key step towards Fairtrade status for the county.
County Councillor Hazel Harding said:"Much of our food and drink comes from the third world, where growers find it increasingly hard to make a decent living. The Fairtrade mark guarantees growers and workers benefit from fairer wages, better working conditions and an improved quality of life."
Lancashire is aiming to become the first Fairtrade county. Garstang was the world's first Fairtrade town in 2000. Lancaster, Preston and Pendle have since achieved Fairtrade status.
Chris Trinick said: "The county council is determined to promote equality and sustainable development wherever possible. This resolution is the first step towards us achieving Fairtrade status."
Fairtrade products are now available in many county council buildings alongside normal lines. Tea and coffee is available in selected meetings and awareness days have been held to inform staff about Fairtrade.
Although the county council supports Fairtrade products, any additional costs will be passed onto consumers in county council facilities.
"Although we have a strong ethical commitment," explained Councillor Harding, "our responsibility to provide best value means we are unable, and unwilling, to pass on any extra costs to council taxpayers."
The photograph shows (from left): Anne Garsed - Preston and South Ribble Fairtrade group; Chris Trinick - Lancashire County Council Chief Executive; Hazel Harding - Lancashire County Council leader; Christine Cole - Preston and South Ribble Fairtrade group