CHELMSFORD AWARD OF FAIRTRADE STATUS

Early day motion 1866, tabled 21 March 2006 by Simon Burns (Conservative). Signed by 25 members.

That this House congratulates the town of Chelmsford in achieving Fairtrade status; notes that Chelmsford was the first town in Essex and only the third in the Eastern region to be awarded Fairtrade status, and that recently this status was renewed for a second year; welcomes the firm commitment by Chelmsford Borough Council together with numerous local organisations, retailers, schools, universities, churches, faith groups and charities in supporting the extension of Fairtrade products and outlets throughout the town; further congratulates Chelmsford High Street, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford Cathedral, Writtle College and Essex County Council offices for their work and dedication in hosting Fairtrade events; and urges the Government to assist Fairtrade campaigns throughout the UK to encourage consumers to provide practical help to poor producers in the developing world and in continuing to call for fairer trade terms for the world's poorest nations.

Signatures by party: Labour 11, Conservative 9, Liberal Democrat 3, DUP 1, Scottish National Party 1.