Unilever to comply with Russian conscription law if staff called up

Consumer group says it is aware of rules that could mean its employees in Russia are sent to war in Ukraine

The consumer group Unilever, which owns brands including Cornetto ice-cream and Dove soap, has said it will comply with Russian conscription law, meaning its Russian employees could be sent to war in Ukraine if called up.

The Anglo-Dutch group, whose products also include Marmite spread and Magnum ice-creams, is facing controversy over its decision to remain operating in Russia, where it employs about 3,000 workers across four manufacturing sites, producing mainly personal care and hygiene products, but also ice-cream.