‘BD needs support not sanction’
Mentioning that Bangladesh now at the crossroads, Vice Chair of the UK All Party Parliamentary Group Nick De Bois MP on Monday said it would be a gross failure for the politicians if people are not given a genuine free and fair choice in the coming national election.
“It’s the duty of politicians to give them (people) a choice, a fair and free choice…it would be a gross failure if the people of Bangladesh aren’t given that choice at the time election comes around. And it must be a genuine, free and fair choice,” he told a press conference at Sonargaon Hotel.
Anne Main, Chair of the APPG on Bangladesh and Conservative Member of Parliament for St Albans, Jonathan Reynolds, Labour (Co-operative) Member of Parliament for Staylbridge and Hyde, Simon Danzcuk, Labour Member of Parliament for Rochdale were also present at the press conference.
Nick, also Conservative Member of Parliament for Enfield North, said the citizens of Bangladesh value their elections and they want elections and to take part in this process.
He said the politicians of Bangladesh need to look forward instead of looking back and avoiding blame to each other.
On continuous support for the Bangladesh’s readymade garment industry, the British MP said Bangladesh needs support not sanction.
“I believe the support should be coming from the major buyers of Bangladesh. It’s crucial to help Bangladesh remain competitive. Because countries are lining up to take business away…,” Nick said.
He laid emphasis on finding a solution in consultation with the industry leaders and said the solution should be sustainable, long term future for the crucial RMG industry.
The British MP also said the seniors retailers need to work with the government to help develop infrastructure here. “I’m very pleased that the Prime Minister has agreed to meet those industry leaders.”
Appreciating Bangladesh’s products, Nick said, “Bangladesh needs its RMG industry as it produces excellent quality products.”
He said a lot of RMG factories showed good practices with excellent standards and all RMG units should follow it.
About the problems and challenges, Bangladesh facing, he said, “There needs to be a conclusion. There’s no simple solution.”
Anne Main said they will report back to the UK parliament on the outcome of their visit here on RMG industry by October. “I believe we’ll create something.”
She said Bangladesh needs long-term sustainability and it need to have an idea. “Cooperation and willingness are important.”
Responding to a question, she said people want political parties to care more about people rather than politicians. “I feel there should be some sense.”
The team arrived here on Friday and is expected to leave tomorrow (Tuesday).
Souyrce: UNB Connect