(S2O-11899) Although Scottish planning policy is not concerned with regulating competition, it aims to ensure that all sectors of the community have access to a choice of shopping, therefore it supports the protection and enhancement of town centres and indicates that they should be the first choice for new shopping developments. In the face of the increasing rivalry between supermarket chains, which are well armed with the best, most expert legal and planning advisers, and are building up land banks and effectively blocking or delaying decisions affecting large and small towns throughout Scotland, what is the Government doing to ensure that the wishes and best long-term interests of local residents are protected?