Grandmothers dressed as turtles alongside unemployed textile workers from San Francisco. Often with contradictory demands nevertheless it is the diversity of these groups which make them such a potent force in any democracy. Clearly we need to do far more to make the case for open trade. We must do this because in a democracy we will not be able to embrace globalisation if too many individuals and organisations feel they are being left behind. I believe that with the right international structures in place and working effectively then globalisation can be a bringer of opportunity and not a threat.
Open trade boosts economic growth.
It is about greater competition which weakens the power of vested interests. It provides greater opportunities and improved standards of living for millions rather than privileges for a few. But there is no point in pretending that the events in Seattle last December were not a setback for global free trade. We must now learn and apply the lessons of Seattle. I would like to mention one current issue.