To ask the Minister of State, Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform what recent assessment he has made of the future competitiveness of the retail sector. (229224)

Assessments of the competitiveness of different parts of the retail sector are undertaken from time to time including in the recent Competition Commission investigation into the grocery sector.

It is clear that the grocery sector is still a strong, competitive market. Other parts of the retail sector are facing tougher times.

We are continuing to work through what farther action, Government can take to help all businesses through the current economic downturn.