Supermarket Ombudsman

4 Aug 2009 04:34 PM

Commenting on the decision by the Competition Commission (CC) to formally recommend that the UK Government's Department for Business, Innovation and Skills establish a Groceries Supply Code of Practice (GSCOP) Ombudsman, Scotland's Environment Minister Roseanna Cunningham said:

"In Scotland there are an increasing number of good news stories to tell about the relationship between Scottish suppliers and supermarkets and our national food and drink policy will help build on this progress

"We have repeatedly told the UK Government that we believe a supermarket ombudsman would help provide long-term security for many parts of the food chain, including consumers. Supermarkets wield a huge amount of influence over the future of our food industry and, as the experience of the banking sector shows us, robust regulation is essential. UK Ministers must now ensure that supermarkets give a fair deal to suppliers and primary producers.

"Our retailers' forum and new charter show that much can be achieved when we work in partnership. We will continue to work with our primary producers, processors and retailers - right across the supply chain - to promote Scottish produce and strengthen the industry."

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