Some of our customers are concerned that companies sourcing stone from India are exploting the quarry workers there and, in particular, could be using child labour.

The Paving and Flooring Centre cites Stonemarket as a prime supplier which prides itself on an ethical policy which deals with such sensitivities.

Stonemarket understands that regulation and auditing are essential to ensure international governance and ethical trading with developing countries. Furthermore, Stonemarket is a member of the Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI).

Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI)

As a member of ETI, Stonemarket is committed to improving conditions in suppliers' work places and the lives of workers who make stone products. Stonemarket has signed up to the nine point ETI Base Code, which has the following principles:

• No-one should be forced to work
• Workers are free to join and form trade unions and to bargain with management
• Working conditions are safe and hygienic
• Child labour shall not be used
• Living wages are paid
• Working hours are not excessive
• No discrimination is practised
• Regular employment is provided
• No harsh or inhumane treatment is allowed

Independently Audited Results

As a member of the ETI, Stonemarket has a programme in place to assess working conditions in our suppliers' work places. These suppliers are audited independently on the ETI nine point base code - and re-audited regularly to ensure compliance.

In India, Stonemarket only buys sandstone from Stone Shippers India, which in addition to the ETI base code compliance, is certified by AQSR not to source any raw materials from quarries employing child labour. We will continue to undertake regular auditing to ensure that the highest standards are maintained at all times.

No child labour is used in the production of Stonemarket natural stone.

We support Stonemarket in its efforts to limit exploitation in India and are proud to carry Stonemarket as the prime source of our stone.