asked the Chairman of Committees:

Further to his Written Answer on 4 December (WA 98), when the review of fair trade products is due to take place; what further items are under discussion; and what is the timetable. [HL640]

Suitable fair trade items are selected according to their cost and whether they are regularly available. This ensures that supplies are cost-effective for the consumer and that wastage is kept to a minimum. The fair trade products provided by the Refreshment Department are subject to the same ongoing review as all other products.

Staff in the department are investigating a number of other fair trade products including fresh fruit, fruit juices, sugar and a wider range of confectionary bars. The Refreshment Committee is briefed on developments regarding the range of fair trade products, and its views are taken into consideration.