Many workers in India's natural stone quarrying industry fall into endless spirals of debt, often sparked by health issues resulting from poor protective measures by their employers. Each death due to these conditions passes the debt onto the surviving family, creating a cycle that is often borne ultimately by the children.

Regulations in the region of Rajasthan, which produces 90% of India's natural stone exports, have repeatedly failed these families. It's further saddening to note that the UK is the biggest importer of this stone, therefore indirectly contributing to this tragedy. The suffering inflicted is immeasurable, with about 300,000 child laborers, some as young as five, reported to be working in atrocious conditions for the quarries.

This situation persists despite the presence of supposed ethical sourcing schemes. These schemes lack around-the-clock monitoring of the stone companies' operations and full dedication to protecting children's interests. As a result, these vulnerable children continue to pay the price of our demand and consumption.

We believe that the torture of the young and the poor is not a price worth any product, let alone for aesthetic purposes. For change to take effect, we need to make strong moves. Therefore, the petition calls for a full ban on the importation of natural stone from India into the UK until substantial action is taken to end this suffering. Let's stand together until real action is taken, until the crying voice of the unheard is listened to. It's high time we say no more to this trade. Now is the time to show that we choose human lives over stones.

Sign this petition to demand a halt on the importation of Indian natural stone to the UK.