The council leader has requested “swift action” from the government after reports of price hikes in Redbridge’s shops.

Shoppers, particularly in Ilford, are claiming essential items like toilet roll and flour have quadrupled in price in some shops.

Both council leader Cllr Jas Athwal and MP Wes Streeting said they had received reports of the practice from shoppers.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

On March 15, MP Streeting tweeted: “I’ve had a report of one local business bulk-buying supermarket products and then selling them in their own shop at double the price.

“I’ll be making it clear that any more of this and I’ll be naming, shaming and running a boycott. Ilford North residents: let me know if this happens.”

For the latest coronavirus updates for east London and Essex, follow our live blog here

In a statement on the COVID-19 pandemic, Cllr Athwal said: “It has also been reported to me that some smaller local shops have begun price hiking essential items.

“This is totally unacceptable and I have written to the Home Secretary requesting swift action be taken.”

He also asked residents to avoid bulk-buying as it “is unnecessary and can prevent others from having access to things they really need”.

Residents who notice price hiking are encouraged by the council to report it to the Competition and Markets Authority.

Email general.enquiries@cma.gov.uk with the following information:
•    your contact details
•    the business you have concerns about and a description of the issue along with any supporting evidence
•    the market area according to the UK Standard Classification Index
•    details of any other organisations you have contacted

East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

For more breaking news, local headlines and features, ‘like’ our Facebook page.

We also have a Twitter account: @ELondonGuardian

Follow us to keep up-to-date with news in Waltham Forest and Redbridge.