HL Deb 04 May 2001 vol 624 cc130-1WA
Baroness Miller of Chilthorne Domer

asked Her Majesty's Government:

When they expect the code of practice which is to be followed by supermarkets when dealing with suppliers to take effect; and who will enforce it. [HU1542]

Lord McIntosh of Haringey

The Office of Fair Trading is currently consulting with supermarkets and the representatives of suppliers on a draft of the code of practice. The Director General will advise the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry on the terms of the code of practice on the completion of this consultation.

The supermarkets will be expected to give binding undertakings to abide by the code finally agreed. The Office of Fair Trading is responsible for monitoring compliance with undertakings given under the Fair Trading Act 1973.