EU trade preferences system update

Trade unions welcome new EU trade preferences system (GSP) as a step forward for development and workers’ rights

The European Union has made an important move to support development while ensuring respect for fundamental workers’ rights through its new Regulation for the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP). The new system has been welcomed by the International Confederation of Free Trade Unions (ICFTU) and the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC). Click here for more information: www.etuc.org/EN/Press/releases/gsp.cfm

Background information on the EU GSP scheme

The EU GSP Scheme was introduced on 1 July 1971. Since its introduction, The EU GSP scheme has been regularly renewed, with a comprehensive review taking place every 10 years. On 10 December 2001, the General Affairs Council of the European Union approved the new EU Regulation for its GSP trade system for 2002-04. The GSP scheme has traditionally been a trade policy instrument aimed at promoting development, through the use of tariffs. Its purpose is to offer developing countries lower customs tariffs than those applied to the developed nations, giving their exports preferential access to the EU market.

French trade unions’ complaint against Marks & Spencer under the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises upheld

The complaint brought by French unions against Marks & Spencer for failing to consult with trade unions over its decision to close down the company’s stores in continental Europe has been upheld by the French Nation Contact Point. The TUC welcomes this decision which is the first to be made under the revised OECD Guidelines agreed at the OECD Ministerial meeting in 2000. The TUC has collaborated closely with French colleagues on this case since the issue was first raised in April 2001. Click here for more information: http://www.tuac.org/

For information on the OECD Guidelines see http://www.tuc.org.uk/globalisation/tus_in_action.htm#oecd