Fairtrade recognition for Glasgow

Fairtrade said workers benefit from better wages and conditions

Fairtrade status has been awarded to Glasgow as the city joins towns and cities throughout the UK in embracing the ethical trade movement.

The council has ensured all coffee and tea drunk at City Chambers is sourced through the system.

Lord Provost Liz Cameron said the city has "a real opportunity to make a difference to the lives of those in the world needing our help".

In 2002, Aberfeldy was the first town in Scotland to gain Fairtrade status.

Cities including Edinburgh, Dundee, Aberdeen and Inverness followed.

They are part of a list of more than 200 UK Fairtrade towns and cities.

The international movement operates on the maxim "think global, act local".

Celebrity backing

Fairtrade said it guarantees that producers in poor countries receive a fair price for their goods.

The movement has won the backing of First Minister Jack McConnell who last year pledged to make Scotland the world's first Fairtrade country.

Bono, Sir Bob Geldof and Coldplay's Chris Martin are among celebrities supporting the campaign.

The Fairtrade food market already accounts for more than £140m in trade a year.