The Ministry of Home Affairs has reminded enterprises interested in joining its affordability scheme to do so through the ministry rather than brokering savings on their own.

A spokeswoman said that transparency was “essential” to the ministry’s efforts towards the Affordable Bermuda Basket Initiative.

Asked for details on why the ministry’s say was needed, she replied: “The ministry is pleased to have introduced the Affordable Bermuda Basket initiative, which has been widely welcomed by the community.

“As part of this effort, the ministry maintains full oversight of the programme.

“To uphold its integrity and fairness, we are committed to ensuring that all consumers benefit from the cost savings generated.”

The programme was introduced last month to help lower the cost of living.

Under the agreement, wholesalers would apply a 10 per cent reduction to the cost of certain products to retailers, who will then apply a further 10 per cent reduction once items reached shelves.

The reduced items were considered most meaningful or useful to households. A full list can be found on the Cost of Living website.

Alexa Lightbourne, the Minister of Home Affairs, thanked The MarketPlace, Lindo’s and The Garden Market for joining a programme designed to provide “immediate relief to households during times of economic pressure”.

She added: “We are encouraged by the increasing interest in supporting the public, and we invite businesses to engage directly with the ministry so that our collective efforts remain co-ordinated, transparent and aligned with maintaining the integrity of the programme.”

Those who wish to sign up for the Affordable Bermuda Basket initiative can do so by e-mailing the ministry at mhahq@gov.bm.