In January and February 2012, the Playfair Campaign and the Trades Union Congress (TUC) reported a number of workers’ rights infringements in two Chinese factories which make London 2012 merchandise. In response, LOCOG instructed an independent party to conduct a comprehensive investigation. An outline of the process used and the findings can be found on the London 2012 website here. As a result of the investigation by LOCOG, remedial action has been implemented which includes, for example, the fostering of greater worker awareness around freedom of association, improvements in worker complaints mechanisms, and installation of fire hydrants and first aid boxes in dormitory areas.
Shaun McCarthy, Chair of the Commission for a Sustainable London 2012 said, “We are satisfied that LOCOG has fully implemented its complaints mechanism and that appropriate remedial action has taken place to resolve labour standards issues within these Chinese factories.
LOCOG should be highly commended for their extensive investigation and their commitment to taking positive steps to improve conditions for workers within the factories concerned”.
Since the allegations, LOCOG has commissioned an independent review of ethical trading systems at Golden Bear and Honav. According to LOCOG’s summary response, Honav has also been appointed as an official licensee to the Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The Rio organising committee has undertaken to “closely monitor Honav’s progress in implementing these recommendations as part of their own supply chain assurance programme”. The Commission considers this a very positive piece of legacy from the London 2012 Games.
