The NFU has congratulated BIS and Defra ministers, describing the Government's announcement that it accepts the need for a body to enforce the Grocery Suppliers Code of Practice (GSCOP) as a victory for common sense and the consumer.

The creation of an enforcement body for the new Grocery Suppliers Code of Practice is in line with recommendations from the Competition Commission which completed its investigation into the Grocery Market in 2008.

NFU President, Peter Kendall, said the decision was the result of hard work and lobbying by the NFU over the past ten years including in-depth responses to both Competition Commission investigations.

Mr Kendall said: "We've worked incredibly hard to make this a reality. Although the consultation period means that farmers and growers will still have to wait for the introduction of an ombudsman, we can at last see light at the end of the tunnel. It is vital that when the new strengthened code comes into force we have a proactive and robust enforcement mechanism in place as soon as possible.

"This current investigation into the grocery market began in 2006. Ministers have taken the right decision and 2010 must be the year we begin to eradicate unfair dealing and protect investment and innovation in British agriculture for the benefit of consumers."