The Groceries Supply Code of Practice to be debated by MPs

• Watch the debate (from 4.30pm, Monday 22 January)
• Read the debate transcript (available shortly after the conclusion of the debate).
• Follow the Committee on X, formerly Twitter, and join the discussion using #PetitionsDebate

Christina Rees MP, a member of the Petitions Committee, has been asked by the Committee to open the debate. MPs from all parties can take part, and the Government will send a minister to respond.

Reform the Groceries Supply Code of Practice to better protect farmers

The petition, which has more than 112,000 signatures, states: “We want the Government to amend the Grocery Supply Code of Practice (GSCP) to require retailers, without exception, to:

• Buy what they agreed to buy
• Pay what they agreed to pay
• Pay on time

We believe the current GSCP is inadequate and doesn't protect farmers from unfair behaviour.”

In its response to the petition, provided on 27 November 2023, the Government said: “The Government is committed to tackling contractual unfairness that can exist in the agri-food supply chain and Defra is working to support farmers and ensure they get a fair price for their products.”

What are petitions debates?

Petitions debates are 'general' debates which allow MPs from all parties to discuss the important issues raised by one or more petitions, and put their concerns to Government Ministers.

Petition debates don’t end with a vote to implement the request of a petition. This means MPs will not vote on the request of the petition at the end of the debate.

Petition debates are scheduled by the Petitions Committee. Only e-petitions started on the parliament petitions site are considered by the Petitions Committee.

Further information

• Find out more about the role of the Petitions Committee
• Find out more about select committees

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