Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has welcomed a call for a debate on the future of supermarkets. Conservative MP for Cities of London and Westminster Mark Field called for the Westminster Hall debate following the publication of the Competition Commission’s final report into the grocery market.

Many of the MPs who spoke criticised the Competition Commission and urged that more should be done to create a level playing field between supermarkets and smaller shops.

ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “The debate showcased that MPs care passionately about competition and diversity in retailing, as well as the future of the high street. What is absolutely clear is that the Competition Commission’s report has not satisfied the concerns about the future of the market and of local shops in particular.

“The extent of MP support gives us great heart, as we continue our campaign for a fair and diverse grocery market.”

At the meeting, David Drew, MP for Stroud, said that he was “disappointed” in the final report and that “competition alone will never sort out the grocery market, let alone wider retailing”. He also raised the issue of the 15 per cent buying price differential, saying “that it is by nature anti-competitive because none of the independents can compete”. He concluded by saying: “I heavily criticise the commission for the belief that competition per se compensates for the fact the high street may have been weakened.”

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