Organizers of the Beijing Olympic Games have promised to conduct
further investigations into accusations that four Chinese factories
are using child labor to make products for the Games.
If the accusations prove to be true, the factories will be
severely punished.
"BOCOG always pays close attention to the social
responsibilities of our licensed manufacturing and sales companies,
as well as our sponsors," said Chen Feng, vice-director of the
marketing department of the Beijing Organizing Committee for the
Games of the XXIX Olympiad (BOCOG).
"The accusations have come to the attention of BOCOG. If they
are found to violate employment regulations, severe punishment will
be meted out."
Chen said the four companies have denied using child labor, but
BOCOG will continue to work with the local government to seek the
truth.
BOCOG executive vice-president Jiang Xiaoyu said earlier in Hong
Kong the committee strictly regulates factories that manufacture
the Games licensed products, including the protection of workers'
rights.
Contracts signed by factories require they abide by labor laws
and be socially responsible.
"We don't select factories with negative social images as well
as contractors. Once selected, we conduct on the spot inspections,"
Chen said.
"We have also held training meetings with them. If they violate
requirements in the contracts, they will be charged and the
contracts will be terminated."
Whatever the findings of the investigation, Chen said BOCOG
would continue to educate those companies that have been contracted
in social responsibilities.
"We want them to realize that their performance in terms of
social responsibility has a lot to do with the image of the
Olympics, and the reputation of the Games," he said.
(China Daily June 14, 2007)