The sourcing companies, including the big brands, say that in their workplaces the working conditions are okay, and that they check them regularly. So they are making an effort, right? Right. But there are two major issues. First, there is the issue of quality. The fact that sourcing companies are at least doing something is a first step, but it's often not enough. The more advanced companies may be willing to admit there is a problem, that they are identifying, and intend to address. Again this is progress, if they address the problems concerned in consultation with workers and their organisations, and are not trying to unilaterally impose solutions. Secondly, the issue of verification is crucial. Of course a company can easily say that there are no labour rights violations. But can we believe them? From the sourcing company's point of view, its more important to re-assure the consumer, than to solve the workers' problem. Therefore, only where verification comes from an organisation operating independently from the company concerned, can it be relied on.