HC Deb 18 December 2003 vol 415 cc1095-6W
Mr. Bercow

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions whether it is the policy of his Department to use fair trade products, as a matter of course, in(a) sales on Departmental premises and (b) receptions and meetings involving staff and visitors. [142801]

Maria Eagle

The Government are committed to supporting the Fairtrade Foundation's efforts in promoting the supply and marketing of Fairtrade products. Where practicable, the Department aims to purchase sustainable goods for sale on departmental premises and for receptions and meetings.

We are currently discussing with our estates partner, LandSecurities Trillium, the feasibility of introducing a target to increase the supply of Fairtrade goods. However, in offices that do not have catering facilities, this is wholly dependent on the availability of Fairtrade goods through small local suppliers.