WDM: Mandelson 'a bully'

Friday, 03, Oct 2008 12:00

Julian Oram, head of policy of the World Development Movement, comments on today's reshuffle:

"Peter Mandelson’s reign in Brussels as trade commissioner has been characterised by a truly aggressive approach to trade with developing countries, and a determination to prioritise the interests of European big business at all costs.

"Whether at the World Trade Organisation, or in trade negotiations with countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America, he has lectured and arguably bullied developing countries to accept unfair trade deals, no matter the cost to subsistence farmers and manufacturing jobs locally.

"The fact that Mr Mandelson is now returning to London to head up a new trade and business portfolio rings serious alarm bells. The prime minister prides himself on his record of securing debt relief and more aid for developing countries. The development credentials of the UK government are at risk if its trade policy, under Peter Mandelson, continues down the path of free trade, rather than seeking to secure real trade justice.

"Although, hopefully Mandelson's departure from Europe could be signal a break away from pro-profit to pro-poor trade policies in Europe at least."