Top jewellers told to cut trade links with Burma

FE Team | Published: October 20, 2007 00:00:00 | Updated: February 01, 2018 00:00:00

Andrew Taylor
FT Syndication Service
LONDON: Trade unions Thursday called on three of London's top jewellery retailers -- Asprey, Harrods and Leviev -- to sever all trading links with Burma following EU trade sanctions announced earlier this week.
Under the sanctions, companies operating in the EU must cease to import Burmese wood products, high-value metals and minerals and precious stones.
Burma's ruling junta is facing increasing international pressure following last month's brutal suppression of protest marches led by Buddhist monks over the lack of political freedom and rising poverty.
The TUC said that seven UK-based companies that have previously traded with Burma in products covered by the sanctions had been identified by the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC). They included three small timber companies and a mining finance house, as well as the three jewellers.
Harrods said Thursday night: "Needless to say, Harrods does not purchase rubies itself, some of which do indeed emanate from Burma. The stones are sourced and finished by the jewellery brands themselves before being offered for sale through their boutiques in the store.
"Harrods understands people's concerns relating to the sourcing of certain commodities and in line with other responsible retailers has always sought to ensure that its customers are only offered products sourced by reputable companies adhering to internationally recognised legal and ethical guidelines.
"Harrods feels that it is up to the individual to make his or her buying decisions based on their own philosophy and beliefs."
The stores group expected that "brands selling gemstones at Harrods will adhere to the revised EU guidelines to the letter once they are implemented".
Asprey said: "We have never bought any stones/jewels directly from Burma and our suppliers no longer deal with Burma as far as we are concerned.
"The jewellery we have in stock is extremely old and we currently have no ties with Burma."
Leviev said: "Leviev received the ITUC letter regarding UK companies trading with Burma today. Leviev will issue a letter to Guy Rider, the general secretary, to confirm that Leviev has no business links to Burma. Leviev is committed to providing the finest jewels to its customers and upholds the strictest standards of selection."