Martin writes: We're disappointed to learn that Bexley Council has turned down Fairtrade Borough status. This campaign has been led by community campaigners and is backed by the Co-operative Group and many other organisations. Getting Fairtrade Borough status means that consumers have a number of shops, cafés and other outlets to buy Fairtrade goods, and that offices and schools serve things like Fairtrade tea and coffee. A key plank of getting awarded the mark by the independent Fairtrade Foundation is having the Council agree a motion simply to show support, so that there's civic leadership, and to offer the choice of Fairtrade products in their own refreshments. Often it can save councils money, and it broadens the choice for consumers.
20 other London Boroughs, like neighbouring Greenwich, have gained the status, as has London as a whole. Croydon was the first Fairtrade borough - I was proud to be the councillor leading the process in Croydon gaining support in all parties. So Bexley would be in good company. Sadly when Councillor Sandra Bauer put forward the motion, the ruling group on the Council turned her down.
Some of the arguments used to justify were misinformed. It's rather sad that councillors use the excuse of economic hardship in this country to turn their backs on the effect our consumption has in other countries. The Co-operative Group will remain committed to Fairtrade. In fact, we continue to see consumers choose ever more Fairtrade in their trolleys - the Sun said last week that 18 million people now buy Fairtrade.
We now need our members to tell Bexley councillors that they should back Fairtrade and give farmers a fair deal. If you support Fairtrade, email the Leader of Bexley Council, Cllr Teresa O'Neill, and tell her so.
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