EXPLOITATION OF COCOA FARMERS

That this House supports the Fairtrade Foundation petition which calls on an end to the exploitation of cocoa farmers; understands that some cocoa farmers are currently earning less that 75p a day, which is less than half of what they need for a good standard of living; further understands that world cocoa prices recently fell by more than a third which has resulted in cocoa farmers being hit the hardest; notes with concern that unfair prices are forcing cocoa farmers into serious poverty as they struggle to afford essential goods and services such as access to safe water and medical treatment; and calls on the Government to target UK aid so that a living income can be introduced for cocoa farmers to ensure that they earn a fair wage for the hard work that they undertake.