Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what assessment he has made of the adequacy of protections for franchisees from changes to their terms and conditions made by franchisors.

The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) recognises the challenges franchisees can face and is monitoring this area closely. I understand that you recently met with Minister Bryant to discuss this matter, and we anticipate further meetings to take place in the future involving DBT officials.

The franchising industry currently self-regulates through the British Franchise Association, which has a Code of Ethics, and the Quality Franchise Association provides a Code of Conduct.