Groceries Code Adjudicator

He agrees with Sir John Hayes on the need for reform in the groceries sector, advocating for a single regulator from farm gate to supermarket shelves. He expressed concern over the lack of response from the Groceries Code Adjudicator.

Calls for regulation of the market when it goes wrong and supports beefing up GCA powers to ensure fair treatment of farmers and consumers.

Calls for stronger protection of farmers from powerful retailers and processors, emphasizing that farmers are treated as shock absorbers and receive the least reward despite carrying all the risk.

Advocates for extending the GCA's reach down the supply chain to protect producers and farmers who take significant risks but do not always see a commensurate return in profits.

Welsh farmers face falling incomes despite inflation due to market power imbalances; the GCA needs more authority to launch independent investigations and cover all supply chain roles.

Acknowledges the positive actions taken by supermarkets such as Tesco and Asda in providing near-end-of-shelf-life goods to local community groups, which helps families below the poverty level. The GCA's importance is highlighted by Northern Ireland’s economic conditions. Farmers face financial pressure due to grocery inflation, which has risen to 4.1%, and the need for fair trade practices.

Congratulates the lead MP on securing debate; discusses ongoing statutory review and lack of fines by GCA due to focus on compliance. Explained the statutory review's focus on powers and duties of the GCA as set out in the Groceries Code Adjudicator Act 2013.

Agrees with Sir John Hayes on the issues faced by producers due to supermarket demands, highlighting an example of livestock farmers being forced to conform to specific specifications that lead to waste.

Highlights the need for a holistic approach rather than limited reviews; mentions decline in small abattoirs from 2,500 to hundreds due to supermarket pressures.

Suggests that the remit of the Groceries Code Adjudicator is too narrow and proposes a new groceries code regulatory authority with powers to set price floors and ceilings.

Agrees with the right hon. Member for South Holland and The Deepings that the groceries supply code of practice is inadequate in protecting suppliers from unfair purchasing practices, leading to bankruptcy and undermining competition. She supports the proposal for a new groceries regulator authority with powers to protect suppliers and consumers from aggressive pricing tactics. She also highlighted the importance of addressing food insecurity and workers' rights.

Suggests reducing the £1 billion turnover threshold that marks compliance with the GCA's code to include more retailers. Expresses concern about unfair contract practices and the risks borne by growers.

Farmers seek fair treatment without relying on state subsidies; they want a balanced market that ensures high-quality produce receives fair pricing through revisiting the Groceries Supply Code of Practice and GCA.

English farms have declined by nearly a quarter in 20 years, particularly dairy farms; farmers face multiple challenges including Brexit impacts, energy prices, and exploitation by supermarkets focusing on cheap food. Asked for a ministerial intervention but was declined by Justin Madders due to time constraints.

Farmers in North Norfolk struggle due to trade deals, budget cuts, and declining farm profitability. Groceries Code Adjudicator needs teeth and should pursue policy goals like healthier food alternatives.