NFU Scotland welcomes today’s introduction of the Groceries Supply Code of Practice (GSCOP), designed to ensure fair play between supermarkets and their suppliers.  The move comes two years after the Competition Commission published its final report on the groceries market, calling for action to better police the major supermarkets.

As also recommended by the Competition Commission, a new Ombudsman is required to enforce the GSCOP; however, primary legislation is needed in order to create the new position.   Now that the GSCOP is in effect, a consultation should follow in February which will establish how it is best enforced, who that body might be, and what powers it could have. 

Speaking about the UK Groceries Code of Practice, James Withers, NFU Scotland Chief Executive said:

"The new supermarket code of practice is stronger and is undoubtedly a step in the right direction.   However, without an independent ombudsman in place to enforce it, the code will repeat the failure of its predecessor.

"The UK Government has at last accepted the Competition Commission's recommendation to establish an ombudsman to police the grocery supply chain in the UK, mirroring the position of the main opposition parties.  It is important that the momentum behind the creation of a supermarket ombudsman is not lost and it must be an absolute priority after the general election.

"Brussels is looking at this issue as well, to ensure fairer relationships between all parts of the food supply chain.  Against the backdrop of these EU discussions, the successful creation of a UK ombudsman could provide the model for the Continent to follow."

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Contact Wendy Irwin on 0131 472 4020