Minister Increases Funding for Forum

Scotland takes a major step towards becoming one of the world's first Fair Trade nations with the launch of the Scottish Fair Trade Forum at the Scottish Parliament. Fairtraders discuss how Scotland will move forward as it works towards Fair Trade nationhood.

Amongst those giving her support at the event will be TV and radio presenter, Gail Porter, an active supporter of Fair Trade.

Speaking in support of the event Gail Porter said, "I am delighted to take part in the launch of the Scottish Fairtrade Forum. As someone who has been actively involved with Fairtrade it makes me very proud that Scotland is taking the lead on an issue that has the potential to improve the lives of millions.

"My recent trip to Uganda brought home to me the difference working in a fair environment can make to people and the quality of their lives. People there have the same hopes and fears for their families that people in Scotland have. Workers in developing countries have the right to be treated with respect and paid a decent wage; by forming the Scottish Fairtrade Forum Scots are supporting that right."

Minister for Europe, External Affairs and Culture Linda Fabiani gave the keynote speech by video address. Ms Fabiani welcomed the previous administration's commitment to support the Scottish Fair Trade Forum and announced additional support to enable them to take the programme forward.

"I recognise the burden that is involved in establishing any new organisation and the Scottish Government will consider the impact of these additional tasks with a view to releasing up to £40,000 extra support in the coming months.

"Our traditional values of fairness and equality mean that the Scottish people will not accept a situation where millions of people are forced to live in abject poverty because World Trade rules are skewed in favour of developed countries.

"In seeking to make Scotland one of the world's first Fair Trade Nations, the Scottish Fair Trade Forum and all the Scots who have supported Trade Justice over many years, are carrying on a Scottish tradition of commitment to international engagement."

Betsy Reed, Scottish Fairtrade Forum Development Officer added, "Fair trade in Scotland has support from the public and politicians alike, that is what we need to propel Scotland towards Fair Trade Nationhood. We need to have ongoing resources and backing from every part of Scottish society in order to make this a reality that changes lives in the developing world."

Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament Alex Fergusson MSP, who is overseeing the forum launch, commented, ""Fair trade goes a long way in the campaign to make poverty history. We now live in a world where the gap between the rich and the poor has never been wider. Fair trade is one positive step forward in correcting that injustice."

ENDS