CONCENTRATION OF GROCERY RETAILING

Early day motion 1248, tabled 20 May 2004 by Jim Dowd (Labour). Signed by 79 members.

That this House recognises the importance of diversity and consumer choice in grocery shopping now and in the future, especially the strong tradition of independently run local grocers and convenience stores; recognises that ongoing acquisitions and consolidation in the grocery market led by the major supermarket groups threatens that choice, diversity and tradition; further recognises the work undertaken by the various trade associations on behalf of small retailers to highlight these implications; and calls on the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry to undertake a full review of the implications of consolidation and introduce measures that would safeguard choice in local shopping for future generations.

Signatures by party: Labour 48, Liberal Democrat 12, Conservative 6, DUP 3, Plaid Cymru 3, Scottish National Party 3, Labour/Co-operative 2, UUP 2.