COUNTRYSIDE organisation the CLA is throwing its weight behind the Competition Commission’s formal recommendation that the Government should establish a Supermarket Ombudsman.

The rural economy experts are also disappointed with the rejection of an Independent Ombudsman by the major UK supermarkets. The Ombudsman would arbitrate on disputes between grocery retailers and suppliers and investigate complaints under the new Groceries Supply Code of Practice.

Carole Hodgson, Assistant Regional Director in the North said: “The appointment of an Independent Ombudsman that will guarantee the rights of suppliers has been at the top of our food chain policy for the last five years, and the CLA welcomes the Competition Commission’s recommendation.

“Although we are disappointed that the major retailers have failed to come to an agreement with the Competition Commission, we are not surprised.

“What is now required is for the Secretary of State, Lord Mandelson, to act quickly and decisively to ensure the rights of suppliers in the food chain are no longer overlooked.”

Creating an Independent Ombudsman for the food chain to protect producers and suppliers is a key proposal is the CLA’s Food Chain Initiative, full details of which can be found on the CLA website.