Fair trade should be U.S. priority - George

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Sat 30th Jun 2001

Commenting on President Bush's statement on aid to developing countries, Liberal Democrat Shadow International Development Secretary, Andrew George MP said:

"Of course African countries should get their houses in order but the US should do the same.

"An increase in aid spending is always welcome but creating an environment for fair trade is more important still.

"I hope that the US will take a lead in removing unjustifiable import barriers and stop dumping its subsidised products on the markets of the poorest countries.

"It is also high time for the US and other G8 nations to finally sign up to the UN Convention Against Corruption."