Genuine and ethical diamonds
Posted, May 28, 2008 @ 00:00
Conservatives support diamond industry's drive for new quality standards and ethical policy
BRUSSELS, 28 May 2008 -- Conservative MEPs are leading a campaign backed by the diamond industry to protect consumers through enhanced quality standards and greater transparency.
Dr Charles Tannock MEP, Conservative spokesman on foreign affairs in the European Parliament, will host an exhibition about the diamond industry, organised by the World Jewellery Confederation (known under the French acronym of CIBJO).
Dr Tannock has led the Conservatives' strong backing for the 'Kimberley process', an industry-led initiative to guarantee the provenance of mined stones and prevent the sale of so-called 'blood diamonds' from conflict zones. Dr Tannock said:
"The Kimberley process is an essential part of squeezing out the trade in blood diamonds by guaranteeing the provenance of mined stones.
"The Kimberley process has gone from strength to strength and I'm pleased the EU has given it such strong support, particularly through its chairmanship of the process in 2007.
"The diamond industry has shown itself to be very adaptable and ethically aware in the face of consumer concern. The Kimberley process is a win-win situation for everyone."
Dr Tannock's colleague Malcolm Harbour MEP, Conservative spokesman on the internal market in the European Parliament, has worked closely with the jewellery industry for many years and is a member of the Birmingham Assay Office. He said developments in the diamond trade have made quality standards a pressing issue.
Mr Harbour said that clear and widely promoted standards are needed at an EU level to enable consumers to differentiate mined stones from synthetic products. He added that ensuring consumers are better informed will help to protect the interests of developing countries, some of whose economies are dependent on diamond mining and export.
Mr Harbour said:
"Technological innovations mean that consumers now have a choice between mined natural diamonds and artificial stones synthesised in a laboratory.
"Better consumer information and quality standards will ensure that customers can make an informed choice about what they buy.
"Britain's assay offices already offer a diamond quality validation and certification service.
"European standards will help consumers and will also boost the sustainable growth of the industry in developing countries, some of which are heavily dependent on diamonds for export income and jobs."