On March 5 MPs debated a Private Members Bill (put forward by Albert Owen MP for Anglesey)  which would establish an independent ombudsman - the Office of the Grocery Market Ombudsman - for the grocery market to oversee the operation of the Groceries Supply Code of Practice.

Although it would be set up and funded by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT), it would be independent and investigate complaints or disputes referred to it by the OFT, retailers or suppliers.

The ombudsman’s decisions would be final and binding on all parties and he/she would have the power to impose fines and/or costs. The Bill passed its second reading by 44 votes to none and moves to a public bill committee.