§ Mr. Peter AinsworthTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) when she intends to review the operation of the Retailer Code of Practice; [42167]
(2) what measures are in place to monitor the operation and impact of the Retailer Code of Practice. [42166]
§ Miss Melanie Johnson[holding answer 11 March 2002]: The Code of Practice on supermarket/supplier relations comes into force on 17 March.
The Director General of Fair Trading is responsible for monitoring and reviewing the operation of Fair Trading Act orders and undertakings. His office has been in contact with relevant trade associations to ensure that the code operates effectively. In addition, the code provides for the independent dispute mediator to supply the Director General with an annual return of his work.