Independent supermarket watchdog needed for any code of conduct

Any supermarket code of conduct to ensure growers and consumers get a fair go needs an independent watchdog to oversee it, Green Party Food spokesperson Sue Kedgley said today.

Last night on TVNZ’s Close-up the heads of New Zealand’s two biggest supermarket chains gave grudging support to the idea of a voluntary code of conduct. The suggestion that an independent watchdog was needed to oversee this code was met with hostility however by the supermarket bosses.

“For the sake of New Zealand’s fruit and vegetable growers it is essential that any supermarket code of conduct is negotiated with growers and Horticulture NZ and is backed up by an independent arbitrator,” said Ms Kedgley.

“A one sided code developed by supermarkets is unlikely to create a fair set of rules which is what growers are seeking.”

Ms Kedgley pointed out that in the United Kingdom a weak voluntary code was initially drawn up but was found to be ineffective. A strengthened supermarket code has since been set up and the position of an independent supermarket ombudsman has got the go ahead.

“The suggestion by the supermarket chains that an ombudsman would be too expensive is frankly ridiculous,” said Ms Kedgley.

"For the long term viability of the New Zealand horticulture industry and the wellbeing of all New Zealand supermarket customers an independent watchdog is essential.

“New Zealand’s supermarket duopoly is desperately trying to get out of the firing line over their exorbitant mark-ups.

“The Green Party will not support anything that is merely a public relations exercise to assist them dodging the tough questions on their pricing policies,” said Ms Kedgley.

Green party Growers survey facts and figures:
http://www.greens.org.nz/misc-documents/green-party-growers-survey-facts-and-figures
Green party survey graphs
http://www.greens.org.nz/misc-documents/growers-survey