One good idea for the stocking

Shoppers are being encouraged to put a little "fair trade" in their Christmas stockings this year.

Aid Minister Marian Hobbs said yesterday that NZaid, the Government's international aid and development agency, would be giving more than $700,000 over the next three years to promote fair trade.

"I would like to encourage all New Zealanders to buy a 'fair trade' product this Christmas," Ms Hobbs said.

"It is a wonderful way we can support developing countries, and I can thoroughly recommend the organic ground coffees, tasty chocolate and fragrant tea as great gifts."

The promotional campaign will increase visibility of "Fair Trade" products, which are identifiable by an international "Fair Trade" logo.

The logo was proof to shoppers that the producers of the product had been paid a fair price and worked in acceptable conditions, Ms Hobbs said.

- NZPA