The Isle of Man will soon be doing more to help food and drink producers from the developing world.

That’s after Tynwald last night (Tuesday) approved a motion which will lead to the government using Fairtrade tea and coffee at all its meetings.

Government will also promote awareness of a wider range of products and encourage more Island firms to sell them.

The motion, by Rushen member, Agriculture Minister Phil Gawne, was unanimously approved with the exception of a proposal to display street signs declaring the Island as a Fairtrade Island.

During a brief debate, Lord Bishop, the Right Reverend Graeme Knowles, said if the government considered itself a player in offering overseas aid, it should assist such countries involved in the Fairtrade initiative.