Market investigation references

Under the Enterprise Act, we have the power to refer markets to the Competition Commission for further investigation where we have reasonable grounds for suspecting that any feature, or combination of features, of a market is preventing, restricting, or distorting competition.

Following a reference it will be for the Competition Commission to decide whether competition is indeed prevented, restricted or distorted, and (if so) what, if any, action should be taken to remedy the adverse effect on competition or any detrimental effect on consumers arising from the adverse effect.

The OFT has prepared two guidance booklets that provide information on the circumstances in which markets will be referred to the Competition Commission for investigation under the Enterprise Act.

Download Market studies guidance Nov 2004 (pdf 153 kb) - see in particular paragraphs 3.34-3.41.

Download Market investigation references Feb 2006 (pdf 430 kb).

Download consultation document on proposed changes to 'Market investigation references' - Sep 2005 (pdf 78 kb).
Download A summary of responses to the public consultation - Feb 2006 (pdf 105 kb).

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