In many countries trade and investment can benefit the poor, but in Burma the opposite is the case. Foreign trade and investment has enabled the regime to double the size of the army, while at the same time Burma spends less on its health service than any other country.

Burma's democracy movement is calling for targeted investment sanctions against the regime in Burma, but so far the British government has refused to answer their call. European Union sanctions against Burma have had no impact on the regime because instead of stopping companies investing in the oil and gas sectors in Burma, where the regime earns most of its money, British and European companies are banned from investing in a pineapple juice factory and a few other companies no-one had ever heard of.

One of the most effective ways to put pressure on the government is to send a personally written letter, asking for targeted economic sanctions against the Burmese military dictatorship. It takes more time, but it works!

Please take a few minutes to write to David Miliband.

Some key points you can make in your letter are suggested below.
More information:
UK Investment Sanctions: Q & A
Background information on sanctions

• Burma's democracy movement is calling for targeted investment sanctions to help cut revenue to the regime.
• Britain is one of the largest investors in Burma, largely through British overseas territories. However, the government has taken no steps to stop this investment.

Send your letter to:
Rt Hon David Miliband MP, Foreign Secretary,
Foreign and Commonwealth Office,
King Charles St,
London SW1A 2AH