CSR Report (p3)
3. Human rights
Policy
To comply with the laws and customs of each country in which we operate. Not to use child labour. Not to discriminate in any way and to give equal opportunities to all workers.
Actions
The above policy has been part of the Group’s approach for many years. The Group’s operating companies are required to include it as part of their employee policies and to comply.
4. Community impact and involvement
Policy
To contribute to local worthwhile causes and charities and to ensure that the Group’s operations cause minimal negative impact within the community.
Actions
For many years the Group has contributed to worthwhile causes. Donations are usually, and have been in the past, made primarily to children’s, cancer, police, fire brigade, drug rehabilitation and other similar charities. The charity committees review all written requests for donations and decide on the level of donation and the charities to which donations are made whilst taking into account its limited resources.
During 2005 donations totalling £52,896 were made to charities by the Group (2004: £3,700). Like all companies, the Group has limited resources and the amount of money available for charitable purposes varies from time to time.
5. Relationships with suppliers, customers and other stakeholders
Policy
The Group recognises the obligations it has towards the parties with whom it has business and other dealings such as its customers, shareholders, employees, suppliers and advisers. Dealings with those groups of people depend upon the honesty, integrity and enthusiasm of its employees and every effort is made to ensure that a high standard of expertise and business principles is maintained in such dealings. Where appropriate, training is given to maintain and to raise the standards.
Actions
As stated in the Directors’ Report, the Group’s policy with suppliers is that individual subsidiary companies are responsible for negotiating terms and conditions under which suppliers operate. Once agreed, payments to suppliers are made in accordance with those terms and conditions, subject always to the supplier having complied with them. That policy has been in place for a number of years and will continue for the foreseeable future. We continue to review and take action where appropriate to ensure the reliable and consistent sources of quality materials from which our products are made.
In all our dealings, honesty and integrity continue to be paramount. The Group’s brands are a highly valuable asset and every effort is made to enhance their reputation for high quality, service and reliability.
Information correct at 03/05/2006