Bangladesh factory collapse prompts MPs to study overseas working conditions

OTTAWA – A House of Commons committee has agreed to take a look at corporate activities in the developing world in the wake of a factory collapse in Bangladesh.

Canadian retailer Loblaw was among those that bought products from clothing factories in Rana Plaza, which collapsed on Apr. 24, killing more than 1,000 people.

The incident has shed new light on working conditions in the garment industry and inspired a global petition calling on companies like Loblaw to do more to protect workers.

Paul Dewar, the foreign affairs critic for the NDP, had proposed that the Commons also take a look at the issue.

The foreign affairs committee passed a motion to launch the study earlier this week, saying it was in response to the tragedy in Bangladesh and the demonstrated desire of Canadians to improve working conditions overseas.

Dewar says he’d like to see Loblaw among the witnesses called by the committee once it begins its work later this month.