This in from Andrew Turner’s office, in their own words. Ed
Jo Swinson MP, Competition Minister, has listened to concerns regarding the newly created Groceries Code Adjudicator, a supermarket regulator which ensures that the Groceries Code is followed.
The Groceries Code was designed to ensure that supermarkets do not mistreat their suppliers including farmers and other small producers. Stakeholders argued that the original proposals didn’t give the Adjudicator enough power to control supermarkets.
Consequently, the Government has agreed to allow the Groceries Code Adjudicator the power to fine supermarkets immediately. The news has been welcomed by farmers and other suppliers who wanted further protection from supermarkets.
Should be welcomed by the Island’s farmers
Andrew Turner, the Island’s MP commented, “This news should be welcomed by the Island’s farmers and small suppliers. Although supermarkets are only likely to be fined in extreme cases, it is now clear that the Groceries Code cannot simply be ignored so should encourage supermarkets to treat their suppliers fairly.
“Supermarkets have been too powerful and unaccountable for too long and this is certainly a step in the right direction. Over recent weeks we have had very positive news with some local supermarkets enthusiastically supporting Isle of Wight milk, but we all know that things are not always so positive.”
Image: LupineHorror under CC BY 2.0
