‘This is an important and overdue step forward in reining in the excessive power big supermarket chains can wield over our food system’. This is the response of the Campaign to Protect Rural England [1] to the announcement today (Wednesday) that the Government will set up a supermarket ombudsman [2]. 

Graeme Willis, Local Foods Campaigner at CPRE, said:

‘ A new groceries watchdog with the right powers is vital.  This should ensure a fair return to suppliers and food producers as well as begin to level the playing field for smaller retailers.  But this is only a first step.’

‘We need to go further and find ways to strengthen the range of food market outlets, including independent and community shops, farmers and traditional markets, local parades and high street stores.’ 

Graeme Willis concluded:

‘Real diversity will guarantee choice for shoppers, keep our food and farming industries alive and build strong local food networks.  Otherwise we will struggle to build a resilient and sustainable food economy.’
 
– END –
NOTES FOR EDITORS

1. CPRE, the Campaign to Protect Rural England, is a charity which promotes the beauty, tranquillity and diversity of rural England. We advocate positive solutions for the long-term future of the countryside. Founded in 1926, we have 60,000 supporters and a branch in every county. President: Bill Bryson. Patron: Her Majesty The Queen. www.cpre.org.uk

2. See press release on Department for Business Skills and Innovation website: ‘Government Announces Go-Ahead for Supermarket Enforcer - Consumer minister Kevin Brennan has today announced that he has accepted the Competition Commission’s recommendation for a body to enforce the Groceries Supply Code of Practice (GSCOP).’  http://nds.coi.gov.uk/clientmicrosite/default.aspx?clientid=431
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
Graeme Willis (Senior Rural Policy Campaigner)
020 7981 2800 (switchboard)
020 7981 2841 (direct)
01206 825206 (home)

Neil Sinden (Director – Policy)
020 7981 2800 (switchboard)
020 7981 2831 (direct)
07739 332795 (mobile)

Claire Norman (Press Officer)
020 7981 2800 (switchboard)
020 7981 2880 (press office)

07739 332 796 (out of hours)