John congratulated Leeds City Council after councillors unanimously voted to make Leeds a Fair Trade City.

"Fair trade is an excellent way we can help the world's poorest people to help themselves - it's not just a cup of tea, it's a bit of global solidarity," said John Battle. "I congratulate Leeds City Council on their support for fair trade, and TIDAL on their tireless campaigning work promoting it."

"We've been serving fair trade tea and coffee in the House of Commons for several years now - and I do at home - and I do recommend them" he added.

Fair trade guarantees third world producers a fair deal - to get the Fairtrade Mark products have to pass a strict inspection by the Fairtrade Foundation.

The Foundation is promoting the Fair Trade City initiative - Leeds has to have 70 shops and 35 cafes selling fair trade goods to get the award.