HC Deb 03 November 1997 vol 300 c7W
Mr. John D. Taylor

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how often(a) she has and (b) other Ministers at the Northern Ireland Office have had meetings during the past three months with representatives of (i) Safeways, (ii) Marks and Spencer, (iii) Sainsburys and (iv) Tesco in order to encourage purchases from local Northern Ireland manufacturers and producers. [12873]

Mr. Ingram

During the past three months, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland has not met representatives of Safeway, Marks and Spencer, Sainsbury or Tesco to discuss local sourcing. I have held one such meeting with Tesco's Chief Executive and Lord Dubs has also highlighted the importance of local sourcing of foodstuffs during a meeting with Tesco on planning issues.

Meetings with Tesco and Sainsbury have been held at official level, a first meeting with Safeway is scheduled for early November and I am being kept informed of significant developments.

In addition, there is ongoing contact at official level with Marks and Spencer on matters of mutual interest, including local sourcing.