Vodafone Japan Adopts Ethical Shopping

Vodafone Japan has announce its implementation of Vodafone Group's Code of Ethical Purchasing (CEP) with its main suppliers starting mid-February 2006 as a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. The CEP is designed to promote safe and fair working conditions, and the responsible management of environmental and social issues in Vodafone Group's supply chain. The CEP is based on Vodafone Group's values and international standards, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Labour Organization Conventions on Labour Standards.

First implemented for global suppliers in 2004, the CEP covers 10 areas including child labour, discrimination, and the environment. Following Vodafone Group's incorporation of the CEP in its operating markets, Vodafone K.K. will also work closely with its suppliers to ensure compliance with the CEP's provision and continuous improvement in Japan.

Vodafone K.K. is committed to further promoting CSR activities in Japan.

Code of Ethical Purchasing Provisions.

1. Child Labour No person is employed who is below the minimum legal age for employment
2. Forced Labour Forced, bonded or compulsory labour is not used
3. Health & Safety A healthy and safe working environment is provided for employees
4. Freedom of Association All employees are free to join or not to join trade unions or similar external representative organisations
5. Discrimination Negative discrimination including racial or sexual discrimination is prohibited
6. Disciplinary Practices Employees are treated with respect and dignity
7. Working Hours Working hours of employees comply with national laws and are not excessive
8. Payment Employees understand their employment conditions and fair and reasonable pay and terms are provided
9. Individual Conduct No form of bribery is tolerated
10. Environment Appropriate measures are in place to improve the efficiency with which finite resources are used, minimise the release of harmful emissions, and improve environmental performance of products and services

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Posted to the site on 9th February 2006