Lib Dems back superstore tsar

THE new post of supermarket ombudsman proposed by the UK Government must have real bite, Liberal Democrats said today.

Consumer minister Kevin Brennan announced a consultation last week on what powers the new "supermarket enforcer" would need to police the groceries supply code of practice, which comes into effect next month.

Fred Mackintosh, Lib Dem candidate for Edinburgh South at the general election, said: "This announcement is as welcome as it is overdue.

Without an effective ombudsman, supermarkets will be able to use their dominant position and market power to suppress farm gate prices and damage local food suppliers."