High street firms' 'Ethical Trading' training programme launches

Training course developed by ETI, Co-operative College, part-funded by DFID

31 October 2005

A new 'ethical trading' training programme for retail managers and suppliers, developed by the Ethical Trading Initiative organisation (ETI) and the Co-operative College, and part-funded by the Department for International Development (DFID) is launched today at the House of Commons. Baroness Amos, Leader of the House of Lords, will attend the launch event.

The programme, which begins in 2006, will see trainees from high-street firms studying the principles of ethical trading via modules designed by the Manchester-based Co-operative College, with the help of British businesses, trade unions and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) who have been working with ETI.

International Development Minister Gareth Thomas said:

"The new training programme will help move ethical trading principles further into the business mainstream. This can only benefit some of the world's poorest people."

DFID helped establish ETI in 1998 and has provided core funding of over £2m to date.

Notes to Editors

1. The ETI/Co-operative College training programme has been developed in association with Marks & Spencer, Levi Strauss, Pentland, Christian Aid, Oxfam, Traidcraft, the Trades Union Congress and the International Textile, Garment, and Leather Workers Federation.

2. The ETI exists to promote good practice in the implementation of labour codes. Its ultimate goal is to ensure that the working conditions of employees in companies that supply goods to UK customers meet or exceed international standards.

3. The Co-operative College was founded in 1919 and is based in Manchester. The College provides training for members, directors, managers and staff and has projects based overseas.

4. The training programme will be launched in the House of Commons on Monday 31st October between 4-6pm. Those attending will include Baroness Amos, DFID spokesperson in the House of Lords; Dan Rees, Director of ETI; Julia Dobson, from Marks & Spencer and David Gibson, Chair of the Co-operative College.

5. If you would like further information please contact the DFID press office on 020 7023 0600 (24 hour number) or e-mail: pressoffice@dfid.gov.uk

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