The remit of the industry watchdog set up to monitor trading practices between the UK’s 10 largest grocery retailers and their direct suppliers is not being extended to cover primary producers and other members of the supply chain.

The Groceries Code Adjudicator (GCA) was established by the Government in June 2013 and a consultation was launched in October 2016 around the possibility of extending the watchdog’s role further down the supply chain.

The Government announced this week that GCA’s remit could be widened to cover other smaller retailers, but it will not be extended to primary consumers.

National Beef Association chief executive Chris Mallon expressed disappointment with the decision, stating that the Government had missed an opportunity which would have “ensured transparency and given confidence to those producing food”.

The Government’s response did acknowledge that a lack of information on prices in the processing and manufacturing stages of the supply chain contributes to the weak trading position of farmers.

“We will explore with industry how the collection and dissemination of market data can be improved in the longer-term to drive greater transparency,” the review outcome reads.

NFU Scotland said that after waiting for two years for the review to be published, it is disappointed in the decision.

“NFUS is confused and concerned by the stipulations within the response that these measures will be taken forward in England only. As a matter of urgency, NFUS is investigating whether there is any intention to consult Scottish producers and Scottish Government on the implementation of these measures,” president Andrew McCornick said.