HC Deb 16 December 1998 vol 322 cc597-8W
Dr. Tonge

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development if she will list the companies which have agreed to join the Ethical Trading Initiative. [64176]

Clare Short

The following companies have joined the Ethical Trading Initiative or have agreed to join and are in the process of doing so:

  • B&Q Plc.
  • CWS ("The Co-op")
  • J. Sainsbury Ltd.
  • Littlewoods
  • Pentland Group Plc.
  • Premier Brands
  • Reebok International Ltd.
  • Somerfield Stores Ltd.
  • Tesco
  • The Body Shop International.

In addition, a substantial number of other companies have expressed an interest in the Ethical Trading Initiative, especially since its annual conference which took place earlier this month, but I understand they are still deciding whether to become members. A number of NGOs and unions are also members and my Department has provided financial support to the ETI. I strongly commend all companies with supply chains in developing countries to consider joining.

Copies of ETI' s base code and membership information have been placed in the Libraries of both Houses.