News in March that the Office of Fair Trading is referring the UK’s biggest grocers to the Competition Commission was greeted enthusiastically by the so-called “Tescopoly” campaign – non-governmental organisations, consumer groups, and researchers calling for something to done about “clone town Britain”, suppliers’ operating margins, and the rights of workers overseas.

But what the competition authority might propose after its 18-month investigation is uncertain. Although activists are happy that the authorities are taking renewed interest, they are not claiming victory yet.

The commission’s previous investigation in 2000 left the market well alone, and campaigners disappointed. The various groups know that, despite a different climate this time, that could happen again.

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