Grant Robertson

The Wellington City Council is to be congratulated for last night agreeing that Wellington will become New Zealand's first Fair Trade city, Wellington Central MP Grant Robertson said today.

"The Council is showing terrific leadership, and by making Wellington a fair trade city will further enhance the city's international reputation," Grant Robertson said.

"Not only is this the right thing to do ethically, all Kiwis know that Wellington is the spiritual home of coffee in this country, and coffee is the number one fair trade product.

"It is a natural selling point for the city, and it is great the Council have come on board. "The campaign for Wellington to become a Fair Trade city has been spearheaded by a committed organising group representing individuals and community groups.

"I have worked alongside them over the last couple of years and I know they have worked very hard to get the Council to the point where they made the decision. I want to particularly single out Paul Barber from Trade Aid for his leadership. "Becoming a Fair Trade city requires the Council to officially endorse the concept and to use fair trade products itself.

There is also a requirement that a minimum number of businesses, educational institutions, churches and community groups sign up to use Fair Trade products.

"Wellingtonians have endorsed the idea, and the Council has now added its voice. "Fair Trade is about ensuring that those who farm products get a fair and decent living from their work.

"It also encourages sustainable practices and provides assistance to affordable credit for developing country farmers. "It is an important part of creating a sustainable and equitable trading system globally, and I am proud that Wellington will now be officially promoting it." Grant Robertson said.