Moves to extend a “long history of links” by increasing efforts to make the whole area a Fair Trade zone have been announced by Perth and Kinross Council.
A council motion, proposed by Councillor Willie Robertson and seconded by Councillor Ann Gaunt, set out how the authority should demonstrate a commitment to Fair Trade, including promoting awareness of issues and opportunities for local supporrt.
The motion, agreed by council chiefs, also set out plans to encourage the use of Fair Trade goods, to be offered in council venues, meetings and functions along with integrating Fair Trade “considerations” in the council’s environmental plan.
Efforts were already underway via the Perth and Kinross Fair Trade steering group.
Mr Robertson said Perth and Kinross has an “excellent record” for promoting Fair Trade.
He said: “Now we are calling for a concerted effort to secure Fair Trade status for the whole of Perth and Kinross. A small committee has worked hard to make this happen.”
Councillor Archie MacLellan said: “It was former Labour Provost Mike O’Malley who first introduced Fair Trade to this council. It may long have been council policy to support Fair Trade but we have never before confirmed that in writing and so this has value.”
A spokesperson for Perth and Kinross Council said: “One councillor from each of the 12 electoral wards has already volunteered to act as a Fair Trade champion or to pass on relevant information, promoting the benefits of Fair Trade to businesses and residents in their area, and acting as a link to their local community councils.”
She continued: “The support for Fair Trade is the latest stage in a long history of links with the Fair Trade movement in Perth and Kinross. In 2002, Aberfeldy became the first Fair Trade Town in Scotland, and in 2005 Perth became a Fair Trade City with Kinross-shire becoming Scotland’s first Fair Trade County.”
Karena Jarvie, chair of the Perth and Kinross Fair Trade steering group, said: “As a key local organisation, the council’s official recognition of the bid to achieve Fair Trade Zone status is an important stage in the process. We are keen to continue to engage with local schools, businesses and community groups to spread the message of Fair Trade further.
“We also want to demonstrate the commitment of people in Perth and Kinross to supporting producers in other countries by ensuring they are paid a fair price for their goods, have safe working conditions and use responsible environmental practices.”
