This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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First Minister's story time
01/03/2007
First Minister Jack McConnell today praised the work of Comic Relief when he gave the children of Forbes nursery in Edinburgh a special lesson on Fair Trade.
In the run-up to Red Nose Day the First Minister launched a special edition of the popular children's book series 'Charlie and Lola' in Scotland. £2 from the sale of every book will go to Comic Relief. The book introduces young children to the idea of Fair Trade products in a fun story about chocolate.
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The First Minister visited Forbes Nursery in Leith Links, Edinburgh to read the story "But I do know ALL about chocolate" to some of the children.
Mr McConnell said:
"Comic Relief does a fantastic job to tackle poverty all over the UK and Africa. This children's book 'Charlie and Lola' will not only raise money and awareness but it will introduce the concept of Fair Trade to young children in an innovative and fun way.
"The Scottish government is committed to helping make Scotland a Fair Trade Nation. I would encourage parents and teachers to introduce the idea of Fair Trade products to children from an early age. This book shows just how easily it can be done.
"I hope all those who can, will donate money to Comic Relief by buying a copy of the book."
Red Nose will take place on March 16, 2007.
Since its launch in 1985, Comic Relief has raised more than £425 million to help people in Africa and the UK and supported almost 500 projects across Scotland spending over £9.9million across the country.
Fairtrade Fortnight runs from February 26 to March 11.
For further details on Red Nose Day and Comic Relief go to www.rednoseday.com, for Fairtrade go to
www.fairtrade.org.uk