Mr. Speaker, consumers continue to struggle with rising food costs, while farmers and processors are receiving less. Five retailers now control over 80% of the grocery trade in Canada. This diminished competition leads to abuses in the industry while sticking consumers with the bill. Independent grocers are the lifeline of many towns across Canada where big retail will not go.
Since the Prime Minister has the Westons' back, can or will the minister stand up for independent grocers and consumers, and update the Competition Act to reflect today's concentrated reality?