The devolved administrations in Scotland and Wales have pledged to work together to become 'Fair Trade nations'.

First ministers Jack McConnell and Rhodri Morgan said the move would mean a better deal for third world farmers.

Criteria that both nations will need to meet include ensuring that 55 per cent of local authorities have fair trade status, with a 10 per cent annual increase in following years.

There would also have to be an increase of five per cent each year in the proportion of the population which knows about Fair Trade.

Some 75 per cent of people would have to buy Fair Trade products every year, with 40 per cent making regular purchases.

"I am determined Scotland will do whatever it can to help end the scandal of poverty in the developing world," said McConnell.

"Our commitment to Fair Trade is at the centre of our national effort to help make poverty history."

And Morgan added: "The use of Fair Trade products in Wales could lift thousands of poor third world farmers out of poverty.

"Our buying decisions as public sector organisations and individuals can make a real difference.

"The Fair Trade country campaign can engage all sections of society by raising awareness and sales of Fair Trade goods in Wales.

"That is the way for us all to play our part in making poverty history. I hope that Wales will become a Fair Trade country in 2007."