Independent Ombudsman is a must, says CLA

The CLA today said that it was disappointed with the rejection of an Independent Ombudsman by the major UK supermarkets.

The CLA fully supports the Competition Commission’s recommendation for the Government to appoint an Independent Ombudsman to protect suppliers financially.

CLA Vice President Harry Cotterell said: "For the last five years, we have been pushing Government and the food industry to adopt an Independent Ombudsman that will guarantee the rights of suppliers.

"Although we are disappointed that the major retailers have failed to come to an agreement with the Competition Commission, we are not surprised.

"What is now required is for the Secretary of State, Lord Mandelson, to act quickly and decisively to ensure the rights of suppliers in the food chain are no longer overlooked."