13/05/2026
An update from the Fairtrade Foundation:
Today's King's speech is another missed opportunity for the UK to commit to stronger protections by businesses for people and planet
We're disappointed at this lack of change, but we know there is public demand for the introduction of mandatory human rights & environmental due diligence law (otherwise known as HREDD) - and the 100,000 people who have already signed our petition so far show that!
Without strong enforceable laws, exploitation, unsafe working conditions and environmental damage remain in global supply chains. Voluntary pledges aren’t enough and we need to see more to combat these issues.
Across Europe, governments are moving forward. The EU already has due diligence legislation to hold companies accountable for harm in their supply chains. The UK risks falling behind and leaving people and the planet exposed.
Mandatory HREDD would ensure businesses are held to account for what goes on in their supply chains - ensuring human rights and environmental protections across all sectors.
For Fairtrade producers already dealing with climate change and volatile markets, it would mean fairer trading practices and a more just share of value.
The Government must show leadership and bring forward strong HREDD legislation without delay.
