Sainsbury and Asda Merger
Debate between Andrew Griffiths and Susan Elan Jones(6 years, 7 months ago)
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Andrew Griffiths
Let me say again that, as the Small business Minister, I am particularly attuned to that issue. I think that all of us, as consumers and as parliamentarians, want those small food producers—those artisanal businesses—to grow and thrive. Both Asda and Sainsbury’s have given assurances that they want to continue those important relationships. However, the Competition and Markets Authority, within its powers, will consider the impact on the supply chain.
Susan Elan Jones (Clwyd South) (Lab)
Does the Minister think that this is a good deal or a bad deal for British farming?
Andrew Griffiths
I think the hon. Lady will understand that it is a deal that must be considered by the shareholders of both Asda and Sainsbury’s. It would be inappropriate for me as the Minister, given my role, to pass judgment on its validity or veracity.