Eastleigh has made a major step forward to becoming a Fair Trade borough.

Fair Trade, which gives farmers in poor countries a fairer deal in the global market place, is growing fast.

Now Eastleigh Council's powerful executive committee is calling for Eastleigh to become a Fair Trade Borough by the end of March next year.

The recommendation will go to the next full council meeting.

To meet one of the criteria for Fair Trade status, Fair Trade tea and coffee would be served in the civic offices.