FF fears Tesco takeover

FIANNA Fail industry spokeswoman, Ms Mary O'Rourke, has written to EU Commissioner, Mr Karel van Miert, expressing concern at the Tesco takeover of Quinnsworth and Crazy Prices. Tesco had been asked to give written assurances on a series of issues, but had failed to do so, she said in the letter. These issues included maintaining employment levels, retaining its existing supplier base, locating its buying office in Ireland and maintaining Quinnsworth's distribution system for at least three years. Ms O'Rourke told the Commissioner that she feared that Tesco's entry would lead to predatory pricing and called on the Commissioner to initiate proceedings under EU law unless Tesco gives written assurances on key issues.