16-Jun-2003

MP leads call to make Southampton a Fairtrade City

Southampton MP Alan Whitehead will be chairing a public meeting 'Let's make Southampton a Fairtrade City' in conference room 3 at the Civic Centre in Southampton at 7.30pm on Wednesday 18 June 2003..

Alan Whitehead, MP for Southampton Test, says,
"As a long standing supporter of the Fairtrade it would be fantastic if Southampton could join a growing list of towns and cities who have gained Fairtrade status. Making Southampton a Fairtrade city would mean that we would play our part in giving farmers and growers in the developing world a fair price for their produce and help support local schools and health care facilities."

For a city to gain status the following criteria has to be met: the City Council would have to pass a resolution supporting Fairtrade; there would need to be an increased range of Fairtrade products in local shops; a number of local businesses and community organisations would use Fairtrade products; local people would need to support the campaign; and a local steering group would be set up to make sure that these commitments are honoured.

Speakers at the meeting include Robert Pearce of Christian Aid, Sue James who is member of Portsmouth Fairtrade City working group and Professor Malcolm Wagstaff of the World Development Movement.

ENDS

Contact
Mike Collins in the constituency office on 023 8023 1942 or 07855 328914