Proudly South African urges political parties to ''buy local''

"Political parties spend a lot of money on T-shirts, badges, banners and caps during this period, and we believe it makes sense to support local manufacturers rather than buying imported products in these categories," said the campaign's chief executive, Martin Feinstein.

"We're working hard to encourage consumers and companies to buy local, and we'd like to see political parties doing the same."

He said the campaign was completely non-political in nature, but wanted to encourage all organisations to consider the positive impact their procurement might have on local jobs, particularly in the clothing sector.

"Often these items are bought through a promotions agency or printer, without consideration given to the country of origin. The supplier usually wants to get the cheapest item, irrespective of where it is made. We feel that for parties which are campaigning around employment issues, buying local is one way to walk the talk".

Feinstein said Proudly South African had sent a survey in mid-February to all registered political parties requesting details on whether their election materials were produced locally.

So far the New National Party, the New Labour Party, the Alliance for Democracy and Prosperity and the Izwi Lethu Party had responded.

These parties had indicated that their material was locally produced, and were prepared to sign a public declaration committing them to supporting local manufacturers.

He added that the campaign would assist any party wishing to find competitive local suppliers who practiced fair labour standards and produced good quality products.