An MP has accused a trade watchdog of protecting the interests of supermarkets at the expense of Sussex farmers.

Norman Baker, Liberal Democrat member for Lewes, criticised the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) for failing to call for changes to the Supermarket Code of Practice, which he said would leave Sussex suppliers with little hope of escaping from damaging trade relationships.

The OFT concluded in a report there was no need to change the wording of the code and ruled out the appointment of a supermarket watchdog.

Mr Baker said the OFT had ignored strong criticisms from consumer, farming and environmental groups.

The MP said: "The OFT's work on the code should now be investigated by the National Audit Office.

Monday, August 8m 2005