20. To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what consideration he has given to the regulation of farm to retail price spreads, with particular reference to supermarkets; and if he will make a statement. (178876)

The Government believe prices are for the market to determine and do not get involved, provided competition rules are respected. As the hon. Member is probably aware the Competition Commission is currently conducting an inquiry into the groceries market as a whole.