GOVERNMENT plans for a new supermarket watchdog have been attacked by Tesco boss Sir Terry Leahy.
The chief executive of Britain’s biggest supermarket said an ombudsman would work in the interests of suppliers rather than helping competition for consumers.
He said: “Everyone knows supermarkets are one of the most competitive industries around. That competition puts power in the hands of the consumer.”
The Government has launched a consultation on the scope and power of the ombudsman, who will oversee compliance with a new supplier code launched on February 4.
A Competition Commission probe found the large retailers were passing on excessive risks and unexpected costs to their suppliers.
