By design or by chance, multinational corporations (MNCs) have become a galvanizing force behind Chinese manufacturers' increasing adherence to the nation's labour, health and safety laws...MNCs, while a positive force in corporate ethics, should also take some of the blame for violations against workers occuring downstream in the business chain. [Refers to the following companies: Walt Disney, Levi Strauss, Nike, Pentland Group, Reebok, Wal-Mart, adidas-Salomon. Also refers to Speedo, Ellesse, Kickers (all part of Pentland Group).]