PEOPLE in Derwentside and Wear Valley joined an international campaign against poverty at the weekend by sending a message to Prime Minister Tony Blair.

Two of the country's most influential politicians, Government Chief Whip Hilary Armstrong and the leader of the House of Lords, Baroness Valerie Amos, led the signing of a Make Poverty History flag, which will be presented when campaign leaders lobby Parliament on November 2.

Ms Armstrong hosted an event for church and community groups in her North-West Durham constituency on Saturday, at Helme Park Hall Hotel, near Crook.

Baroness Amos, who is a former secretary of state for international development, outlined the need for an increase in international aid, fair trade and the cancellation of debt for the poorest nations.

She said: "We are seeking to achieve a world which is more equal, with dynamic developing countries.

"As people who live in the richest countries in the world, we have a moral responsibility to those who live in appalling conditions, often with little food, water or sanitation.

"Improving the economies of poorer countries also brings benefits to the UK. If the economy of a developing country is thriving, people can get jobs and feel secure, leading to less conflict and fewer refugee problems, while skilled professionals, such as doctors, are less likely to migrate."

"The UK has taken a leadership role on issues of development, doubling the amount that we have spent since 1967 to our present commitment of £4.6bn a year, of which £1bn is being spent in Africa."