Cornish MP supports Supermarket Ombudsman Bill

05.03.2010  The Private Members’ Bill regarding the formation of a Supermarket Ombudsmen was debated in the House of Commons this morning, with strong cross-party support from all areas of the country. Andrew George began the debate by leading the discussion for the Ombudsmen, and welcomed opinions from all parties.

Mr George has been leading calls for the creation of a Supermarket Ombudsman for over 10 years. The Ombudsman as proposed by the Competition Commission would act to police unfair abuses of market power by the big supermarket chains. These abuses harm the interest of consumers, farmers and suppliers.

Prior to the Government’s announcement Mr George met with the Minister for Consumer Affairs, Kevin Brennan MP, Environment Secretary, Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP and Ministers from the Department for International Development. Mr George has also hosted a Parliamentary Symposium on the need for an Ombudsman that gathered members of the GMAG, politicians and expert speakers to discuss his sponsorship of Albert Owen MP’s Bill.

Mr George said: “I know that it is St Piran’s Day today and in view of my commitment to local farmers and growers it is vital to ensure that this piece of legislation goes through. That's why I’m prepared to be in London on this very important day.”