A code of conduct should be created for companies operating in undemocratic countries, says Socialist Party MP Harry van Bommel. "This will hold companies accountable and require staff working abroad to share their experience with their bosses at home", Mr Van Bommel says.

The code should cover a number of areas, including workers' welfare, which will block products that involve child labour or harm the environment. The code should also hold Dutch firms accountable for the amount of corruption they face. "In some countries you can't do business without dealing with corrupt officials."

Business community
Mr Van Bommel wants to discuss the code in parliament as soon as possible. "Fortunately the discussion is making progress. India and Nigeria, for example, are talking about it more and more."

It is up to the business community to take the initiative for such a code, Mr Van Bommel stresses. "There are enough companies that serve as a role model with a proven "good practice."

The foreign ministry is to help draft the code. "You can't force companies to operate in a certain way abroad. That is why such a code is needed."

Consumers
The code will also benefit consumers by showing them how companies whose products or services they use operate abroad. "Internet is making the world more and more transparent. For companies it is becoming increasingly difficult to hide their violations and immoral conduct."

The Socialist MP does not think such a code would be premature. "We do not have to wait for Europe. France and Germany use very different norms in that respect. There is no reason why Holland should not adopt a high standard and be proud of Holland as a model country."

(cl)

© Radio Netherlands Worldwide