>> If we establish that they are code violators, shouldn't we refuse to do
> business with them? No exhibits, no advertising, no endorsement by
> association.

>By this reasoning should we patronize our local grocery store?  They sell
formula etc.
I think Beverly's explanation was excellent in saying that the Code states
it is "marketing" that is the problem<

errr, I understand -- and companies understand -- exhibits, advertising and
endorsements by reputable professional bodies or charities with volunteer
workers to BE marketing.

They use these means because they are effective, pound per pound (or dollar
per dollar) in comparison with billboards and magazine ads, or whatever
other method they might choose (?sponsoring the Grand Prix?).

Which part of the company's budget do you imagine the conference stands and
personel time is charged to?  I imagine the marketing dept.

And with regard to the local store -- sure, you can buy your groceries
there, but if you accept some money from them for a leaflet giving
information to parents, the general public or your colleagues, or for a
raffle prize at your breastfeeding awareness party, *you* are violating the
code by accepting sponsorship/support from a distributor -- distributors are
pretty much regarded on a par with manufacturers in the Code, and they are
violating the code by giving it to you.

The companies themselves have the responsibilty to ensure that they do not
use 'usual' marketing strategies when they sell products covered by the
scope of the code (non-human milk, drinks or foods sold for babies under the
age of 6 months, bottles and teats).  It doesn't matter about local
legislation, the companies are obliged to restrict their practices.

The Code is 20 years old, but when it was agreed, it was intended to be a
*minimum* to be ratified and agreed by all nations, who would go on to
further work to protect (this is the place the Code has in the 'protect,
promote and support' triad of Innocenti exhortations) breastfeeding.

Magda Sachs
Breastfeeding Supporter, BfN, UK
feeling a strange and sad sense of deja vu at going around in this arguement
again ... and again....

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