SCHEDULES

SCHEDULE 1 Exclusions: Mergers and Concentrations

Sections 3(1)(a) and 19(1)(a).

Part I Mergers

Enterprises ceasing to be distinct: the Chapter I prohibition

1

1

To the extent to which an agreement (either on its own or when taken together with another agreement) results, or if carried out would result, in any two enterprises ceasing to be distinct enterprises for the purposes of F168Part V of the M1Fair Trading Act 1973 (“the 1973 Act”)F168Part 3 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (“the 2002 Act”), the Chapter I prohibition does not apply to the agreement.

2

The exclusion provided by sub-paragraph (1) extends to any provision directly related and necessary to the implementation of the merger provisions.

3

In sub-paragraph (2) “merger provisions” means the provisions of the agreement which cause, or if carried out would cause, the agreement to have the result mentioned in sub-paragraph (1).

4

F169Section 65 of the 1973 ActF169Section 26 of the 2002 Act applies for the purposes of this paragraph as if—

a

in subsection (3) (circumstances in which a person or group of persons may be treated as having control of an enterprise), and

b

in subsection (4) (circumstances in which a person or group of persons may be treated as bringing an enterprise under their control),

for “may” there were substituted “ must ”.

Enterprises ceasing to be distinct: the Chapter II prohibition

2

1

To the extent to which conduct (either on its own or when taken together with other conduct)—

a

results in any two enterprises ceasing to be distinct enterprises for the purposes of F170Part V of the 1973 ActF170Part 3 of the 2002 Act), or

b

is directly related and necessary to the attainment of the result mentioned in paragraph (a),

the Chapter II prohibition does not apply to that conduct.

2

F171Section 65 of the 1973 ActF171Section 26 of the 2002 Act applies for the purposes of this paragraph as it applies for the purposes of paragraph 1.

Transfer of a newspaper or of newspaper assets

F1343

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Withdrawal of the paragraph 1 exclusion

C14

1

The exclusion provided by paragraph 1 does not apply to a particular agreement if the F74OFT gives a direction under this paragraph to that effect.

2

If the F74OFT is considering whether to give a direction under this paragraph, F75it may by notice in writing require any party to the agreement in question to give F75the OFT such information in connection with the agreement as F75it may require.

3

The F74OFT may give a direction under this paragraph only as provided in sub-paragraph (4) or (5).

4

If at the end of such period as may be specified in rules under section 51 a person has failed, without reasonable excuse, to comply with a requirement imposed under sub-paragraph (2), the F74OFT may give a direction under this paragraph.

5

The F74OFT may also give a direction under this paragraph if—

F148a

it considers that the agreement will, if not excluded, infringe the Chapter I prohibition; and

b

the agreement is not a protected agreement.

6

F149For the purposes of sub-paragraph (5), an individual exemption is unconditional if no conditions or obligations are imposed in respect of it under section 4(3)(a).

7

A direction under this paragraph—

a

must be in writing;

b

may be made so as to have effect from a date specified in the direction (which may not be earlier than the date on which it is given).

Protected agreements

C14C13C275

An agreement is a protected agreement for the purposes of paragraph 4 if—

F76a

the OFT or (as the case may be) the Secretary of State has published its or his decision not to make a reference to the Competition Commission under section 22, 33, 45 or 62 of the 2002 Act in connection with the agreement;

b

the OFT or (as the case may be) the Secretary of State has made a reference to the Competition Commission under section 22, 33, 45 or 62 of the 2002 Act in connection with the agreement and the Commission has found that the agreement has given rise to, or would if carried out give rise to, a relevant merger situation or (as the case may be) a special merger situation;

c

the agreement does not fall within paragraph (a) or (b) but has given rise to, or would if carried out give rise to, enterprises to which it relates being regarded under section 26 of the 2002 Act as ceasing to be distinct enterprises (otherwise than as the result of subsection (3) or (4)(b) of that section); or

d

the OFT has made a reference to the Competition Commission under section 32 of the Water Industry Act 1991 in connection with the agreement and the Commission has found that the agreement has given rise to, or would if carried out give rise to, a merger of any two or more water enterprises of the kind to which that section applies.

Part II Concentrations subject to EC controls

6

1

To the extent to which an agreement (either on its own or when taken together with another agreement) gives rise to, or would if carried out give rise to, a concentration, the Chapter I prohibition does not apply to the agreement if the Merger Regulation gives the Commission exclusive jurisdiction in the matter.

2

To the extent to which conduct (either on its own or when taken together with other conduct) gives rise to, or would if pursued give rise to, a concentration, the Chapter II prohibition does not apply to the conduct if the Merger Regulation gives the Commission exclusive jurisdiction in the matter.

3

In this paragraph—

  • concentration” means a concentration with a Community dimension within the meaning of Articles 1 and 3 of the Merger Regulation; and

  • F150“Merger Regulation” means Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 of 20th January 2004 on the control of concentrations between undertakings.

SCHEDULE 2 Exclusions: Other Competition Scrutiny

Section 3(1)(b).

Part I Financial Services

The Financial Services Act 1986 (c.60)

1

1

The Financial Services Act 1986 is amended as follows.

2

For section 125 (effect of the M2Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976), substitute—

125 The Competition Act 1998: Chapter I prohibition.

1

The Chapter I prohibition does not apply to an agreement for the constitution of—

a

a recognised self-regulating organisation,

b

a recognised investment exchange, or

c

a recognised clearing house,

to the extent to which the agreement relates to the regulating provisions of the body concerned.

2

Subject to subsection (3) below, the Chapter I prohibition does not apply to an agreement for the constitution of—

a

a self-regulating organisation,

b

an investment exchange, or

c

a clearing house,

to the extent to which the agreement relates to the regulating provisions of the body concerned.

3

The exclusion provided by subsection (2) above applies only if—

a

the body has applied for a recognition order in accordance with the provisions of this Act; and

b

the application has not been determined.

4

The Chapter I prohibition does not apply to a decision made by—

a

a recognised self-regulating organisation,

b

a recognised investment exchange, or

c

a recognised clearing house,

to the extent to which the decision relates to any of that body’s regulating provisions or specified practices.

5

The Chapter I prohibition does not apply to the specified practices of—

a

a recognised self-regulating organisation, a recognised investment exchange or a recognised clearing house; or

b

a person who is subject to—

i

the rules of one of those bodies, or

ii

the statements of principle, rules, regulations or codes of practice made by a designated agency in the exercise of functions transferred to it by a delegation order.

6

The Chapter I prohibition does not apply to any agreement the parties to which consist of or include—

a

a recognised self-regulating organisation, a recognised investment exchange or a recognised clearing house; or

b

a person who is subject to—

i

the rules of one of those bodies, or

ii

the statements of principle, rules, regulations or codes of practice made by a designated agency in the exercise of functions transferred to it by a delegation order,

to the extent to which the agreement consists of provisions the inclusion of which is required or contemplated by any of the body’s regulating provisions or specified practices or by the statements of principle, rules, regulations or codes of practice of the agency.

7

The Chapter I prohibition does not apply to—

a

any clearing arrangements; or

b

any agreement between a recognised investment exchange and a recognised clearing house, to the extent to which the agreement consists of provisions the inclusion of which in the agreement is required or contemplated by any clearing arrangements.

8

If the recognition order in respect of a body of the kind mentioned in subsection (1)(a), (b) or (c) above is revoked, subsections (1) and (4) to (7) above are to have effect as if that body had continued to be recognised until the end of the period of six months beginning with the day on which the revocation took effect.

9

In this section—

  • the Chapter I prohibition” means the prohibition imposed by section 2(1) of the Competition Act 1998;

  • regulating provisions” means—

    1. a

      in relation to a self-regulating organisation, any rules made, or guidance issued, by the organisation;

    2. b

      in relation to an investment exchange, any rules made, or guidance issued, by the exchange;

    3. c

      in relation to a clearing house, any rules made, or guidance issued, by the clearing house;

  • specified practices” means—

    1. a

      in the case of a recognised self-regulating organisation, the practices mentioned in section 119(2)(a)(ii) and (iii) above (read with section 119(5) and (6)(a));

    2. b

      in the case of a recognised investment exchange, the practices mentioned in section 119(2)(b)(ii) and (iii) above (read with section 119(5) and (6)(b));

    3. c

      in the case of a recognised clearing house, the practices mentioned in section 119(2)(c)(ii) and (iii) above (read with section 119(5) and (6)(b));

    4. d

      in the case of a person who is subject to the statements of principle, rules, regulations or codes of practice issued or made by a designated agency in the exercise of functions transferred to it by a delegation order, the practices mentioned in section 121(2)(c) above (read with section 121(4));

    and expressions used in this section which are also used in Part I of the Competition Act 1998 are to be interpreted in the same way as for the purposes of that Part of that Act.

3

Omit section 126 (certain practices not to constitute anti-competitive practices for the purposes of the M3Competition Act 1980).

4

For section 127 (modification of statutory provisions in relation to recognised professional bodies), substitute—

127 Application of Competition Act 1998 in relation to recognised professional bodies: Chapter I prohibition.

1

This section applies to—

a

any agreement for the constitution of a recognised professional body to the extent to which it relates to the rules or guidance of that body relating to the carrying on of investment business by persons certified by it (“investment business rules”); and

b

any other agreement, the parties to which consist of or include—

i

a recognised professional body,

ii

a person certified by such a body, or

iii

a member of such a body,

and which contains a provision required or contemplated by that body’s investment business rules.

2

If it appears to the Treasury, in relation to some or all of the provisions of an agreement to which this section applies—

a

that the provisions in question do not have, and are not intended or likely to have, to any significant extent the effect of restricting, distorting or preventing competition; or

b

that the effect of restricting, distorting or preventing competition which the provisions in question do have, or are intended or are likely to have, is not greater than is necessary for the protection of investors,

the Treasury may make a declaration to that effect.

3

If the Treasury make a declaration under this section, the Chapter I prohibition does not apply to the agreement to the extent to which the agreement consists of provisions to which the declaration relates.

4

If the Treasury are satisfied that there has been a material change of circumstances, they may—

a

revoke a declaration made under this section, if they consider that the grounds on which it was made no longer exist;

b

vary such a declaration, if they consider that there are grounds for making a different declaration; or

c

make a declaration even though they have notified the Director of their intention not to do so.

5

If the Treasury make, vary or revoke a declaration under this section they must notify the Director of their decision.

6

If the Director proposes to exercise any Chapter III powers in respect of any provisions of an agreement to which this section applies, he must—

a

notify the Treasury of his intention to do so; and

b

give the Treasury particulars of the agreement and such other information—

i

as he considers will assist the Treasury to decide whether to exercise their powers under this section; or

ii

as the Treasury may request.

7

The Director may not exercise his Chapter III powers in respect of any provisions of an agreement to which this section applies, unless the Treasury—

a

have notified him that they have not made a declaration in respect of those provisions under this section and that they do not intend to make such a declaration; or

b

have revoked a declaration under this section and a period of six months beginning with the date on which the revocation took effect has expired.

8

A declaration under this section ceases to have effect if the agreement to which it relates ceases to be one to which this section applies.

9

In this section—

  • the Chapter I prohibition” means the prohibition imposed by section 2(1) of the Competition Act 1998,

  • Chapter III powers” means the powers given to the Director by Chapter III of Part I of that Act so far as they relate to the Chapter I prohibition, and

expressions used in this section which are also used in Part I of the Competition Act 1998 are to be interpreted in the same way as for the purposes of that Part of that Act.

10

In this section references to an agreement are to be read as applying equally to, or in relation to, a decision or concerted practice.

11

In the application of this section to decisions and concerted practices, references to provisions of an agreement are to be read as references to elements of a decision or concerted practice.

F142Part II Companies

Annotations:
Amendments (Textual)

The Companies Act 1989 (c.40)

2

1

The Companies Act 1989 is amended as follows.

2

In Schedule 14, for paragraph 9 (exclusion of certain agreements from the M4Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976), substitute—

The Competition Act 1998

9

1

The Chapter I prohibition does not apply to an agreement for the constitution of a recognised supervisory or qualifying body to the extent to which it relates to—

a

rules of, or guidance issued by, the body; and

b

incidental matters connected with the rules or guidance.

2

The Chapter I prohibition does not apply to an agreement the parties to which consist of or include—

a

a recognised supervisory or qualifying body, or

b

any person mentioned in paragraph 3(5) or (6) above,

to the extent to which the agreement consists of provisions the inclusion of which in the agreement is required or contemplated by the rules or guidance of that body.

3

The Chapter I prohibition does not apply to the practices mentioned in paragraph 3(4)(a) and (b) above.

4

Where a recognition order is revoked, sub-paragraphs (1) to (3) above are to continue to apply for a period of six months beginning with the day on which the revocation takes effect, as if the order were still in force.

5

In this paragraph—

a

the Chapter I prohibition” means the prohibition imposed by section 2(1) of the Competition Act 1998,

b

references to an agreement are to be read as applying equally to, or in relation to, a decision or concerted practice,

and expressions used in this paragraph which are also used in Part I of the Competition Act 1998 are to be interpreted in the same way as for the purposes of that Part of that Act.

6

In the application of this paragraph to decisions and concerted practices, references to provisions of an agreement are to be read as references to elements of a decision or concerted practice.

The Companies (Northern Ireland) Order 1990 (S.I. 1990/593 (N.I. 5))

F1723

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Part III Broadcasting

The Broadcasting Act 1990 (c.42)

4

1

The Broadcasting Act 1990 is amended as follows.

2

In section 194A (which modifies the M5Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976 in its application to agreements relating to Channel 3 news provision), for subsections (2) to (6), substitute—

2

If, having sought the advice of the Director, it appears to the Secretary of State, in relation to some or all of the provisions of a relevant agreement, that the conditions mentioned in subsection (3) are satisfied, he may make a declaration to that effect.

3

The conditions are that—

a

the provisions in question do not have, and are not intended or likely to have, to any significant extent the effect of restricting, distorting or preventing competition; or

b

the effect of restricting, distorting or preventing competition which the provisions in question do have or are intended or are likely to have, is not greater than is necessary—

i

in the case of a relevant agreement falling within subsection (1)(a), for securing the appointment by holders of regional Channel 3 licences of a single body corporate to be the appointed news provider for the purposes of section 31(2), or

ii

in the case of a relevant agreement falling within subsection (1)(b), for compliance by them with conditions included in their licences by virtue of section 31(1) and (2).

4

If the Secretary of State makes a declaration under this section, the Chapter I prohibition does not apply to the agreement to the extent to which the agreement consists of provisions to which the declaration relates.

5

If the Secretary of State is satisfied that there has been a material change of circumstances, he may—

a

revoke a declaration made under this section, if he considers that the grounds on which it was made no longer exist;

b

vary such a declaration, if he considers that there are grounds for making a different declaration; or

c

make a declaration, even though he has notified the Director of his intention not to do so.

6

If the Secretary of State makes, varies or revokes a declaration under this section, he must notify the Director of his decision.

7

The Director may not exercise any Chapter III powers in respect of a relevant agreement, unless—

a

he has notified the Secretary of State of his intention to do so; and

b

the Secretary of State—

i

has notified the Director that he has not made a declaration in respect of the agreement, or provisions of the agreement, under this section and that he does not intend to make such a declaration; or

ii

has revoked a declaration under this section and a period of six months beginning with the date on which the revocation took effect has expired.

8

If the Director proposes to exercise any Chapter III powers in respect of a relevant agreement, he must give the Secretary of State particulars of the agreement and such other information—

a

as he considers will assist the Secretary of State to decide whether to exercise his powers under this section; or

b

as the Secretary of State may request.

9

In this section—

  • the Chapter I prohibition” means the prohibition imposed by section 2(1) of the Competition Act 1998;

  • Chapter III powers” means the powers given to the Director by Chapter III of Part I of that Act so far as they relate to the Chapter I prohibition;

  • Director” means the Director General of Fair Trading;

  • regional Channel 3 licence” has the same meaning as in Part I;

and expressions used in this section which are also used in Part I of the Competition Act 1998 are to be interpreted in the same way as for the purposes of that Part of that Act.

10

In this section references to an agreement are to be read as applying equally to, or in relation to, a decision or concerted practice.

11

In the application of this section to decisions and concerted practices, references to provisions of an agreement are to be read as references to elements of a decision or concerted practice.

Networking arrangements under the Broadcasting Act 1990 (c.42)

5

F1351

The Chapter I prohibition does not apply in respect of any networking arrangements to the extent that they—

a

have been approved for the purposes of licence conditions imposed under section 291 of the Communications Act 2003; or

b

are arrangements that have been considered under Schedule 4 to the Broadcasting Act 1990 and fall to be treated as so approved;

nor does that prohibition apply in respect of things done with a view to arrangements being entered into or approved to the extent that those things have effect for purposes that are directly related to, and necessary for compliance with, conditions so imposed.

2

F124OFCOM must publish a list of the networking arrangements which in their opinion are excluded from the Chapter I prohibition by virtue of sub-paragraph (1).

3

F125OFCOM must—

a

consult the Director before publishing the list, and

b

publish the list in such a way as they think most suitable for bringing it to the attention of persons who, in their opinion, would be affected by, or likely to have an interest in, it.

F1364

In this paragraph “networking arrangements” has the same meaning as in Part 3 of the Communications Act 2003.

F143Part IV Environmental Protection

Annotations:
Amendments (Textual)

Producer responsibility obligations

6

1

The M6Environment Act 1995 is amended as follows.

2

In section 94(1) (supplementary provisions about regulations imposing producer responsibility obligations on prescribed persons), after paragraph (o), insert—

oa

the exclusion or modification of any provision of Part I of the Competition Act 1998 in relation to exemption schemes or in relation to any agreement, decision or concerted practice at least one of the parties to which is an operator of an exemption scheme;

3

After section 94(6), insert—

6A

Expressions used in paragraph (oa) of subsection (1) above which are also used in Part I of the Competition Act 1998 are to be interpreted in the same way as for the purposes of that Part of that Act.

4

After section 94, insert—

94A Producer responsibility: competition matters.

1

For the purposes of this section, the relevant paragraphs are paragraphs (n), (o), (oa) and (ya) of section 94(1) above.

2

Regulations made by virtue of any of the relevant paragraphs may include transitional provision in respect of agreements or exemption schemes—

a

in respect of which information has been required for the purposes of competition scrutiny under any regulation made by virtue of paragraph (ya);

b

which are being, or have been, considered for the purposes of competition scrutiny under any regulation made by virtue of paragraph (n) or (ya); or

c

in respect of which provisions of the M7Restrictive Trade Practices Acts 1976 and M81977 have been modified or excluded in accordance with any regulation made by virtue of paragraph (o).

3

Subsections (2), (3), (5) to (7) and (10) of section 93 above do not apply to a statutory instrument which contains only regulations made by virtue of any of the relevant paragraphs or subsection (2) above.

4

Such a statutory instrument shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

SCHEDULE 3 General Exclusions

Sections 3(1)(c) and 19(1)(b).

Planning obligations

1

1

The Chapter I prohibition does not apply to an agreement—

a

to the extent to which it is a planning obligation;

b

which is made under section 75 (agreements regulating development or use of land) or 246 (agreements relating to Crown land) of the M9Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997; or

c

which is made under Article 40 of the M10Planning (Northern Ireland) Order 1991.

2

In sub-paragraph (1)(a), “planning obligation” means—

a

a planning obligation for the purposes of section 106 of the M11Town and Country Planning Act 1990; or

b

a planning obligation for the purposes of section 299A of that Act.

Section 21(2) agreements

2

F1791

The Chapter I prohibition does not apply to an agreement in respect of which a direction under section 21(2) of the M12Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976 is in force immediately before the coming into force of section 2 (“a section 21(2) agreement”).

2

If a material variation is made to a section 21(2) agreement, sub-paragraph (1) ceases to apply to the agreement on the coming into force of the variation.

3

Sub-paragraph (1) does not apply to a particular section 21(2) agreement if the F18OFT gives a direction under this paragraph to that effect.

4

If the F18OFT is considering whether to give a direction under this paragraph, F19it may by notice in writing require any party to the agreement in question to give F19the OFT such information in connection with the agreement as F19it may require.

5

The F18OFT may give a direction under this paragraph only as provided in sub-paragraph (6) or (7).

6

If at the end of such period as may be specified in rules under section 51 a person has failed, without reasonable excuse, to comply with a requirement imposed under sub-paragraph (4), the F18OFT may give a direction under this paragraph.

7

The F18OFT may also give a direction under this paragraph F20if it considers—

a

that the agreement will, if not excluded, infringe the Chapter I prohibition; and

b

that F20the OFT isnot likely to grant it an unconditional individual exemption.

8

For the purposes of sub-paragraph (7) an individual exemption is unconditional if no conditions or obligations are imposed in respect of it under section 4(3)(a).

9

A direction under this paragraph—

a

must be in writing;

b

may be made so as to have effect from a date specified in the direction (which may not be earlier than the date on which it is given).

EEA Regulated Markets

3

1

The Chapter I prohibition does not apply to an agreement for the constitution of an EEA regulated market to the extent to which the agreement relates to any of the rules made, or guidance issued, by that market.

2

The Chapter I prohibition does not apply to a decision made by an EEA regulated market, to the extent to which the decision relates to any of the market’s regulating provisions.

3

The Chapter I prohibition does not apply to—

a

any practices of an EEA regulated market; or

b

any practices which are trading practices in relation to an EEA regulated market.

4

The Chapter I prohibition does not apply to an agreement the parties to which are or include—

a

an EEA regulated market, or

b

a person who is subject to the rules of that market,

to the extent to which the agreement consists of provisions the inclusion of which is required or contemplated by the regulating provisions of that market.

5

In this paragraph—

  • EEA regulated market” is a market which—

    1. a

      is listed by an EEA State other than the United Kingdom pursuant to F181Article 47 of Directive 2004/39/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 April 2004 on markets in financial instruments; and

    2. b

      operates without any requirement that a person dealing on the market should have a physical presence in the EEA State from which any trading facilities are provided or on any trading floor that the market may have;

  • EEA State” means a State which is a contracting party to the EEA Agreement;

  • regulating provisions”, in relation to an EEA regulated market, means—

    1. a

      rules made, or guidance issued, by that market,

    2. b

      practices of that market, or

    3. c

      practices which, in relation to that market, are trading practices;

  • trading practices”, in relation to an EEA regulated market, means practices of persons who are subject to the rules made by that market, and—

    1. a

      which relate to business in respect of which those persons are subject to the rules of that market, and which are required or contemplated by those rules or by guidance issued by that market; or

    2. b

      which are otherwise attributable to the conduct of that market as such.

Services of general economic interest etc.

4

Neither the Chapter I prohibition nor the Chapter II prohibition applies to an undertaking entrusted with the operation of services of general economic interest or having the character of a revenue-producing monopoly in so far as the prohibition would obstruct the performance, in law or in fact, of the particular tasks assigned to that undertaking.

Avoidance of conflict with international obligations

6

1

If the Secretary of State is satisfied that, in order to avoid a conflict between provisions of this Part and an international obligation of the United Kingdom, it would be appropriate for the Chapter I prohibition not to apply to—

a

a particular agreement, or

b

any agreement of a particular description,

he may by order exclude the agreement, or agreements of that description, from the Chapter I prohibition.

2

An order under sub-paragraph (1) may make provision for the exclusion of the agreement or agreements to which the order applies, or of such of them as may be specified, only in specified circumstances.

3

An order under sub-paragraph (1) may also provide that the Chapter I prohibition is to be deemed never to have applied in relation to the agreement or agreements, or in relation to such of them as may be specified.

4

If the Secretary of State is satisfied that, in order to avoid a conflict between provisions of this Part and an international obligation of the United Kingdom, it would be appropriate for the Chapter II prohibition not to apply in particular circumstances, he may by order provide for it not to apply in such circumstances as may be specified.

5

An order under sub-paragraph (4) may provide that the Chapter II prohibition is to be deemed never to have applied in relation to specified conduct.

6

An international arrangement relating to civil aviation and designated by an order made by the Secretary of State is to be treated as an international obligation for the purposes of this paragraph.

7

In this paragraph and paragraph 7 “specified” means specified in the order.

Public policy

7

1

If the Secretary of State is satisfied that there are exceptional and compelling reasons of public policy why the Chapter I prohibition ought not to apply to—

a

a particular agreement, or

b

any agreement of a particular description,

he may by order exclude the agreement, or agreements of that description, from the Chapter I prohibition.

2

An order under sub-paragraph (1) may make provision for the exclusion of the agreement or agreements to which the order applies, or of such of them as may be specified, only in specified circumstances.

3

An order under sub-paragraph (1) may also provide that the Chapter I prohibition is to be deemed never to have applied in relation to the agreement or agreements, or in relation to such of them as may be specified.

4

If the Secretary of State is satisfied that there are exceptional and compelling reasons of public policy why the Chapter II prohibition ought not to apply in particular circumstances, he may by order provide for it not to apply in such circumstances as may be specified.

5

An order under sub-paragraph (4) may provide that the Chapter II prohibition is to be deemed never to have applied in relation to specified conduct.

Coal and steel

8

1

The Chapter I prohibition does not apply to an agreement which relates to a coal or steel product to the extent to which the ECSC Treaty gives the Commission exclusive jurisdiction in the matter.

2

Sub-paragraph (1) ceases to have effect on the date on which the ECSC Treaty expires (“the expiry date”).

3

The Chapter II prohibition does not apply to conduct which relates to a coal or steel product to the extent to which the ECSC Treaty gives the Commission exclusive jurisdiction in the matter.

4

Sub-paragraph (3) ceases to have effect on the expiry date.

5

In this paragraph—

  • coal or steel product” means any product of a kind listed in Annex I to the ECSC Treaty; and

  • ECSC Treaty” means the Treaty establishing the European Coal and Steel Community.

Agricultural products

9

1

The Chapter I prohibition does not apply to an agreement to the extent to which it relates to production of or trade in an agricultural product and—

a

forms an integral part of a national market organisation;

b

is necessary for the attainment of the objectives set out in F186Article 39 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union of the Treaty; or

c

is an agreement of farmers or farmers’ associations (or associations of such associations) belonging to a single member State which concerns—

i

the production or sale of agricultural products, or

ii

the use of joint facilities for the storage, treatment or processing of agricultural products,

and under which there is no obligation to charge identical prices.

2

If the Commission determines that an agreement does not fulfil the conditions specified by the provision for agricultural products for exclusion from F187Article 101(1), the exclusion provided by this paragraph (“the agriculture exclusion”) is to be treated as ceasing to apply to the agreement on the date of the decision.

3

The agriculture exclusion does not apply to a particular agreement if the F21OFT gives a direction under this paragraph to that effect.

4

If the F21OFT is considering whether to give a direction under this paragraph, F22it may by notice in writing require any party to the agreement in question to give F23the OFT such information in connection with the agreement as F22it may require.

5

The F21OFT may give a direction under this paragraph only as provided in sub-paragraph (6) or (7).

6

If at the end of such period as may be specified in rules under section 51 a person has failed, without reasonable excuse, to comply with a requirement imposed under sub-paragraph (4), the F21OFT may give a direction under this paragraph.

7

The F21OFT may also give a direction under this paragraph if F23it considers that an agreement (whether or not F23it considers that it infringes the Chapter I prohibition) is likely, or is intended, substantially and unjustifiably to prevent, restrict or distort competition in relation to an agricultural product.

8

A direction under this paragraph—

a

must be in writing;

b

may be made so as to have effect from a date specified in the direction (which may not be earlier than the date on which it is given).

9

In this paragraph—

  • agricultural product” means any product of a kind listed in F151Annex I to the Treaty; and

  • provision for agricultural products” means Council Regulation (EEC) No. 26/62 of 4th April 1962 applying certain rules of competition to production of and trade in agricultural products.

F9SCHEDULE 4 Professional Rules

Section 3(1)(d).

Annotations:
Amendments (Textual)
F9

Sch. 4 repealed (1.4.2003) by Enterprise Act 2002 (c. 40), ss. 207, 279, Sch. 26 (with Sch. 24 paras. 2022); S.I. 2003/766, art. 2, Sch. (with art. 3) (as amended (20.7.2007) by S.I. 2007/1846, reg. 3(2), Sch.)

F9Part I Exclusion

F9 General

F91

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Designated rules

F92

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Application for designation

F93

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Alterations

F94

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Reviewing the list

F95

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Removal from the list

F96

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Inspection

F97

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9Part II Professional Services

F9 Medical

F99

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Dental

F910

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Ophthalmic

F911

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Veterinary

F912

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Nursing

F913

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Midwifery

F914

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Physiotherapy

F915

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Chiropody

F916

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Architectural

F917

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Accounting and auditing

F918

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Insolvency

F919

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Patent agency

F920

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F921

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Parliamentary agency

F922

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Surveying

F923

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Engineering and technology et ceteralaetc.

F924

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Educational

F925

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9 Religious

F926

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

C2I1F144SCHEDULE 5 Notification under Chapter I: Procedure

Section 12(2).

Annotations:
Commencement Information
I1

Sch. 5 partly in force; Sch. 5 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 431; Sch. 5 partly in force at 1.3.2000 by S.I. 2000/344, art. 2, Sch.

Amendments (Textual)
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C2

Sch. 5 applied (with modifications) (1.3.2000) by S.I. 2000/263, art. 8

Terms used

1

In this Schedule—

  • applicant” means the person making an application to which this Schedule applies;

  • application” means an application under section 13 or an application under section 14;

  • application for guidance” means an application under section 13;

  • application for a decision” means an application under section 14;

  • rules” means rules made by the F10OFT under section 51; and

  • specified” means specified in the rules.

General rules about applications

2

1

An application must be made in accordance with rules.

2

A party to an agreement who makes an application must take all reasonable steps to notify all other parties to the agreement of whom he is aware—

a

that the application has been made; and

b

as to whether it is for guidance or a decision.

3

Notification under sub-paragraph (2) must be in the specified manner.

Preliminary investigation

3

1

If, after a preliminary investigation of an application, the F10OFT considers that it is likely—

a

that the agreement concerned will infringe the Chapter I prohibition, and

b

that it would not be appropriate to grant the agreement an individual exemption,

F24it may make a decision (“a provisional decision”) under this paragraph.

2

If the F10OFT makes a provisional decision—

a

the F10OFT must notify the applicant in writing of F24its provisional decision; and

b

section 13(4) or (as the case may be) section 14(4) is to be taken as never having applied.

3

When making a provisional decision, the F10OFT must follow such procedure as may be specified.

4

A provisional decision does not affect the final determination of an application.

5

If the F10OFT has given notice to the applicant under sub-paragraph (2) in respect of an application for a decision, he may continue with the application under section 14.

Procedure on application for guidance

4

When determining an application for guidance, the F10OFT must follow such procedure as may be specified.

Procedure on application for a decision

5

1

When determining an application for a decision, the F10OFT must follow such procedure as may be specified.

2

The F10OFT must arrange for the application to be published in such a way as F25it thinks most suitable for F26bringing the application to the attention of those likely to be affected by it, unless F27the OFT is satisfied that it will be sufficient F28... to seek information from one or more particular persons other than the applicant.

3

In determining the application, the F10OFT must take into account any representations made to F29it by persons other than the applicant.

Publication of decisions

6

If the F10OFT determines an application for a decision F30it must publish F30its decision, together with F30its reasons for making it, in such manner as may be specified.

Delay by the F10OFT

7

1

This paragraph applies if the court is satisfied, on the application of a person aggrieved by the failure of the F10OFT to determine an application for a decision in accordance with the specified procedure, that there has been undue delay on the part of the F10OFT in determining the application.

2

The court may give such directions to the F10OFT as it considers appropriate for securing that the application is determined without unnecessary further delay.

F145SCHEDULE 6 Notification under Chapter II: Procedure

Section 20(2).

Annotations:
Amendments (Textual)

Terms used

1

In this Schedule—

  • applicant” means the person making an application to which this Schedule applies;

  • application” means an application under section 21 or an application under section 22;

  • application for guidance” means an application under section 21;

  • application for a decision” means an application under section 22;

  • other party”, in relation to conduct of two or more persons, means one of those persons other than the applicant;

  • rules” means rules made by the F12OFT under section 51; and

  • specified” means specified in the rules.

General rules about applications

C32

1

An application must be made in accordance with rules.

2

If the conduct to which an application relates is conduct of two or more persons, the applicant must take all reasonable steps to notify all of the other parties of whom he is aware—

a

that the application has been made; and

b

as to whether it is for guidance or a decision.

3

Notification under sub-paragraph (2) must be in the specified manner.

Annotations:
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C3

Sch. 6 paras. 2-2C amended (1.3.2000) by S.I. 2000/947, art. 6

Preliminary investigation

3

1

If, after a preliminary investigation of an application, the F12OFT considers that it is likely that the conduct concerned will infringe the Chapter II prohibition, F31it may make a decision (“a provisional decision”) under this paragraph.

2

If the F12OFT makes a provisional decision, F31it must notify the applicant in writing of that decision.

3

When making a provisional decision, the F12OFT must follow such procedure as may be specified.

4

A provisional decision does not affect the final determination of an application.

5

If the F12OFT has given notice to the applicant under sub-paragraph (2) in respect of an application for a decision, he may continue with the application under section 22.

Procedure on application for guidance

4

When determining an application for guidance, the F12OFT must follow such procedure as may be specified.

Procedure on application for a decision

5

1

When determining an application for a decision, the F12OFT must follow such procedure as may be specified.

2

The F12OFT must arrange for the application to be published in such a way as F32it thinks most suitable for F33bringing the application to the attention of those likely to be affected by it, unless F34the OFT is satisfied that it will be sufficient F36... to seek information from one or more particular persons other than the applicant.

3

In determining the application, the F12OFT must take into account any representations made to F35it by persons other than the applicant.

Publication of decisions

6

If the F12OFT determines an application for a decision F37it must publish F37its decision, together with F37its reasons for making it, in such manner as may be specified.

Delay by the F12OFT

7

1

This paragraph applies if the court is satisfied, on the application of a person aggrieved by the failure of the F12OFT to determine an application for a decision in accordance with the specified procedure, that there has been undue delay on the part of the F12OFT in determining the application.

2

The court may give such directions to the F12OFT as it considers appropriate for securing that the application is determined without unnecessary further delay.

F147SCHEDULE 6ACOMMITMENTS

Section 31A

Annotations:

PART 1PROCEDURAL REQUIREMENTS FOR THE ACCEPTANCE AND VARIATION OF COMMITMENTS

1

Paragraph 2 applies where the OFT proposes to—

a

accept any commitments under section 31A; or

b

accept any variation of such commitments other than a variation which is not material in any respect.

2

1

Before accepting the commitments or variation, the OFT must—

a

give notice under this paragraph; and

b

consider any representations made in accordance with the notice and not withdrawn.

2

A notice under this paragraph must state—

a

that the OFT proposes to accept the commitments or variation;

b

the purpose of the commitments or variation and the way in which the commitments or variation would meet the OFT’s competition concerns;

c

any other facts which the OFT considers are relevant to the acceptance or variation of the commitments; and

d

the period within which representations may be made in relation to the proposed commitments or variation.

3

The period stated for the purposes of sub-paragraph (2)(d) must be at least 11 working days starting with the date the notice is given or, if that date is not a working day, with the date of the first working day after that date.

3

1

The OFT must not accept the commitments or variation of which notice has been given under paragraph 2(1) with modifications unless it—

a

gives notice under this paragraph of the proposed modifications; and

b

considers any representations made in accordance with the notice and not withdrawn.

2

A notice under this paragraph must state—

a

the proposed modifications;

b

the reasons for them; and

c

the period within which representations may be made in relation to the proposed modifications.

3

The period stated for the purposes of sub-paragraph (2)(c) must be at least 6 working days starting with the date the notice is given or, if that date is not a working day, with the date of the first working day after that date.

4

If, after giving notice under paragraph 2 or 3 the OFT decides—

a

not to accept the commitments or variation concerned, and

b

not to proceed by virtue of paragraph 5 or 6,

the OFT must give notice that it has so decided.

5

The requirements of paragraph 3 shall not apply if the OFT

a

has already given notice under paragraph 2 but not under paragraph 3; and

b

considers that the modifications which are now being proposed are not material in any respect.

6

The requirements of paragraph 3 shall not apply if the OFT

a

has already given notices under paragraphs 2 and 3; and

b

considers that the further modifications which are now being proposed are not material in any respect or do not differ in any material respect from the modifications in relation to which notice was last given under paragraph 3.

7

As soon as practicable after accepting commitments or a variation under section 31A the OFT must publish the commitments or the variation in such manner as the OFT considers appropriate.

8

A notice under paragraph 2 or 3 shall be given by—

a

sending a copy of the notice to such person or persons as the OFT considers appropriate for the purpose of bringing the matter to which it relates to the attention of those likely to be affected by it; or

b

publishing the notice in such manner as the OFT considers appropriate for the purpose of bringing the matter to which it relates to the attention of those likely to be affected by it.

PART 2PROCEDURAL REQUIREMENTS FOR THE RELEASE OF COMMITMENTS

10

Paragraph 11 applies where the OFT proposes to release any commitments under section 31A.

11

1

Before releasing the commitments, the OFT must—

a

give notice under this paragraph;

b

send a copy of the notice to the person (or persons) who gave the commitments; and

c

consider any representations made in accordance with the notice and not withdrawn.

2

A notice under this paragraph must state—

a

the fact that a release is proposed;

b

the reasons for it; and

c

the period within which representations may be made in relation to the proposed release.

3

The period stated for the purposes of sub-paragraph (2)(c) must be at least 11 working days starting with the date the notice is given or, if that date is not a working day, with the date of the first working day after that date.

12

If after giving notice under paragraph 11 the OFT decides not to proceed with the release, it must—

a

give notice that it has so decided; and

b

send a copy of the notice to the person (or persons) who gave the commitments.

13

As soon as practicable after releasing the commitments, the OFT must—

a

publish the release in such manner as it considers appropriate; and

b

send a copy of the release to the person (or persons) who gave the commitments.

14

A notice under paragraph 11 or 12 shall be given by—

a

sending a copy of the notice to such other person or persons as the OFT considers appropriate for the purpose of bringing the matter to which it relates to the attention of those likely to be affected by it; or

b

publishing the notice in such manner as the OFT considers appropriate for the purpose of bringing the matter to which it relates to the attention of those likely to be affected by it.

SCHEDULE 7 The Competition Commission

Section 45(7).

Part I General

Interpretation

C251

In this Schedule—

  • the 1973 Act” means the M13Fair Trading Act 1973;

  • F38...

  • Chairman” means the chairman of the Commission;

  • the Commission” means the Competition Commission;

  • Council” has the meaning given in paragraph 5;

  • general functions” means any functions of the Commission other than functions—

    1. a

      F39...

    2. b

      which are to be discharged by the Council;

  • member” means a member of the Commission;

  • newspaper merger reference” means a F137reference under section 45 of the Enterprise Act 2002 which specifies a newspaper public interest consideration (within the meaning of paragraph 20A of Schedule 8 to that Act) or a reference under section 62 of that Act which specifies a consideration specified in section 58(2A) or (2B) of that Act;

  • F40newspaper panel member” means a member of the panel maintained under paragraph 22;

  • F38...

  • reporting panel member” means a member appointed under paragraph 2(1)(b);

  • secretary” means the secretary of the Commission appointed under paragraph 9; and

  • specialist panel member” means a member appointed under any of the provisions mentioned in paragraph 2(1)(d).

Membership of the Commission

C42

1

The Commission is to consist of—

F41a

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

b

members appointed by the Secretary of State to form a panel for the purposes of the Commission’s general functions;

c

F121 members appointed (in accordance with paragraph 15(5)) fromF121the members of the panel maintained under paragraph 22;

d

members appointed by the Secretary of State under or by virtue of—

F141i

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F1ii

section 104 of the Utilities Act 2000; .

F127iii

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

iv

Article 15(9) of the M14Electricity (Northern Ireland) Order 1992.

F42e

one or more members appointed by the Secretary of State to serve on the Council.

F771A

A person may not be, at the same time, a member of the Commission and a member of the Tribunal.

2

A person who is appointed as a member of a kind mentioned in one of paragraphs F122(a)F122(aa) to (c) of sub-paragraph (3) may also be appointed as a member of either or both of the other kinds mentioned in those paragraphs.

3

The kinds of member are—

F43a

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F44aa

a newspaper panel member;

b

a reporting panel member;

c

a specialist panel member.

F45C54

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5

The validity of the Commission’s proceedings is not affected by a defect in the appointment of a member.

Chairman and deputy chairmen

3

1

The Commission is to have a chairman appointed by the Secretary of State from among the reporting panel members.

2

The Secretary of State may appoint one or more of the reporting panel members to act as deputy chairman.

3

The Chairman, and any deputy chairman, may resign that office at any time by notice in writing addressed to the Secretary of State.

4

If the Chairman (or a deputy chairman) ceases to be a member he also ceases to be Chairman (or a deputy chairman).

5

If the Chairman is absent or otherwise unable to act, or there is no chairman, any of his functions may be performed—

a

if there is one deputy chairman, by him;

b

if there is more than one—

i

by the deputy chairman designated by the Secretary of State; or

ii

if no such designation has been made, by the deputy chairman designated by the deputy chairmen;

c

if there is no deputy chairman able to act—

i

by the member designated by the Secretary of State; or

ii

if no such designation has been made, by the member designated by the Commission.

President

F46C64

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Council

5

1

The Commission is to have a F123management board to be known as the Competition Commission Council (but referred to in this Schedule as “the Council”).

2

The Council is to consist of—

a

the Chairman F49and any deputy chairmen of the Commission;

F47b

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F48bb

the member or members appointed under paragraph 2(1)(e);

c

such other members as the Secretary of State may appoint; and

d

the secretary.

3

In exercising its functions under paragraphs 3 and 7 to 12 F50... , the Commission is to act through the Council.

F783A

Without prejudice to the question whether any other functions of the Commission are to be so discharged, the functions of the Commission under sections 106, 116, and 171 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (and under section 116 as applied for the purposes of references under Part 4 of that Act by section 176 of that Act) are to be discharged by the Council.

4

The Council may determine its own procedure including, in particular, its quorum.

5

The Chairman (and any person acting as Chairman) is to have a casting vote on any question being decided by the Council.

Term of office

6

1

Subject to the provisions of this Schedule, each member is to hold and vacate office in accordance with the terms of his appointment.

2

A person is not to be appointed as a member for more than F51five years at a timeF51eight years (but this does not prevent a re-appointment for the purpose only of continuing to act as a member of a group selected under paragraph 15 before the end of his term of office).

3

Any member may at any time resign by notice in writing addressed to the Secretary of State.

4

The Secretary of State may remove a member on the ground of incapacity or misbehaviour.

F525

No person is to be prevented from being appointed as a member merely because he has previously been a member.

Expenses, remuneration and pensions

7

1

The Secretary of State shall pay to the Commission such sums as he considers appropriate to enable it to perform its functions.

2

The Commission may pay, or make provision for paying, to or in respect of each member such salaries or other remuneration and such pensions, allowances, fees, expenses or gratuities as the Secretary of State may determine.

3

If a person ceases to be a member otherwise than on the expiry of his term of office and it appears to the Secretary of State that there are special circumstances which make it right for him to receive compensation, the Commission may make a payment to him of such amount as the Secretary of State may determine.

F534

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Commission’s powers

F137A

The Commission may publish advice and information in relation to any matter connected with the exercise of its functions.

8

Subject to the provisions of this Schedule, the Commission has power to do anything (except borrow money)—

a

calculated to facilitate the discharge of its functions; or

b

incidental or conducive to the discharge of its functions.

Staff

9

1

The Commission is to have a secretary, appointed by the Secretary of State on such terms and conditions of service as he considers appropriate.

2

The approval of the Treasury is required as to those terms and conditions.

3

Before appointing a person to be secretary, the Secretary of State must consult the Chairman F54... .

4

Subject to obtaining the approval of F55the Secretary of State as to numbers and terms and conditions of service the Commission may appoint such staff as it thinks appropriate.

Procedure

F7910

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Application of seal and proof of instruments

11

1

The application of the seal of the Commission must be authenticated by the signature of the secretary or of some other person authorised for the purpose.

2

Sub-paragraph (1) does not apply in relation to any document which is or is to be signed in accordance with the law of Scotland.

3

A document purporting to be duly executed under the seal of the Commission—

a

is to be received in evidence; and

b

is to be taken to have been so executed unless the contrary is proved.

Accounts

12

1

The Commission must—

a

keep proper accounts and proper records in relation to its accounts;

b

prepare a statement of accounts in respect of each of its financial years; and

c

send copies of the statement to the Secretary of State and to the Comptroller and Auditor General before the end of the month of August next following the financial year to which the statement relates.

2

The statement of accounts must comply with any directions given by the Secretary of State with the approval of the Treasury as to—

a

the information to be contained in it,

b

the manner in which the information contained in it is to be presented, or

c

the methods and principles according to which the statement is to be prepared,

and must contain such additional information as the Secretary of State may with the approval of the Treasury require to be provided for informing Parliament.

3

The Comptroller and Auditor General must—

a

examine, certify and report on each statement received by him as a result of this paragraph; and

b

lay copies of each statement and of his report before each House of Parliament.

4

In this paragraph “financial year” means the period beginning with the date on which the Commission is established and ending with March 31st next, and each successive period of twelve months.

F11Annual reports

Annotations:
Amendments (Textual)
F11

Sch. 7 para. 12A and cross-heading inserted (1.4.2003) by Enterprise Act 2002 (c. 40), ss. 186, 279; S.I. 2003/766, art. 2, Sch. (with art. 3) (as amended (20.7.2007) by S.I. 2007/1846, reg. 3(2), Sch.)

C1112A

1

The Commission shall make to the Secretary of State a report for each financial year on its activities during the year.

2

The annual report must be made before the end of August next following the financial year to which it relates.

3

The Secretary of State shall lay a copy of the annual report before Parliament and arrange for the report to be published.

F11Status

13

1

The Commission is not to be regarded as the servant or agent of the Crown or as enjoying any status, privilege or immunity of the Crown.

2

The Commission’s property is not to be regarded as property of, or held on behalf of, the Crown.

C9C26 Part II Performance of the Commission’s General Functions

Annotations:
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C9

Sch. 7 Pt. II applied (with modifications) (1.4.1999) by 1984 c. 12, s. 13(9A) (as substituted (1.4.1999) by 1998 c. 41, s. 66(5), Sch. 10 Pt. IV para. 9(2) (with s. 73); S.I. 1999/505, art. 2, Sch. 2)

Sch. 7 Pt. II applied (with modifications) (1.4.1999) by 1986 c. 44, s. 24(7A) (as substituted (1.4.1999) by 1998 c. 41, s. 66(5), Sch. 10 Pt. IV para. 10(2) (with s. 73); S.I. 1999/505, art. 2, Sch. 2)

Sch. 7 Pt. II applied (with modifications) (1.4.1999) by 1989 c. 29, s. 12(8A) (as substituted (1.4.1999) by 1998 c. 41, s. 66(5), Sch. 10 Pt. IV para. 12(2) (with s. 73); S.I. 1999/505, art. 2, Sch. 2)

Sch. 7 Pt. II applied (with modifications) (1.4.1999) by 1991 c. 56, s. 14(7A) (as substituted (1.4.1999) by 1998 c. 41, s. 66(5), Sch. 10 Pt. IV para. 13(3) (with s. 73); S.I. 1999/505, art. 2, Sch. 2)

Sch. 7 Pt. II applied (with modifications) (1.4.1999) by 1993 c. 43, s. 13(8A) (as substituted (1.4.1999) by 1998 c. 41, s. 66(5), Sch. 10 Pt. IV para. 15(2) (with s. 73); S.I. 1999/505, art. 2, Sch. 2)

Sch. 7 Pt. II applied (with modifications) (1.4.1999) by S.I. 1992/231 (N.I. 1), art. 15(8)(9) (as substituted (1.4.1999) by 1998 c. 41, s. 66(5), Sch. 10 Pt. V para. 17(2) (with s. 73); S.I. 1999/505, art. 2, Sch. 2)

Sch. 7 Pt. II applied (with modifications) (1.4.1999) by S.I. 1996/275 (N.I. 2), art. 15(9) (as substituted (1.4.1999) by 1998 c. 41, s. 66(5), Sch. 10 Pt. V para. 18(2) (with s. 73); S.I. 1999/505, art. 2, Sch. 2)

Sch. 7 Pt. II modified (1.4.1999) by 1980 c. 21, s. 11(9A) (as substituted (1.4.1999) by 1998 c. 41, s. 74(1), Sch. 12 para. 4(3) (with s. 73); S.I. 1999/505, art. 2, Sch. 2)

Sch. 7 Pt. II modified (1.4.1999) by 1986 c. 31, s. 44(3A) (as substituted (1.4.1999) by 1998 c. 41, s. 74(1), Sch. 12 para. 7(2) (with s. 73); S.I. 1999/505, art. 2, Sch. 2)

Sch. 7 Pt. II modified (1.4.1999) by 1990 c. 42, ss. 67, 77, 121, Sch. 7 para. 4(7A) (as substituted (1.4.1999) by 1998 c. 41, s. 74(1), Sch. 12 para. 14(3) (with s. 73); S.I. 1999/505, art. 2, Sch. 2)

Sch. 7 Pt. II modified (1.4.1999) by S.I. 1994/426 (N.I. 1), art. 35(3) (as substituted (1.4.1999) by 1998 c. 41, s. 74(1), Sch. 12 para. 20(2); S.I. 1999/505, art. 2, Sch. 2)

Sch. 7 Pt. II applied (with modifications) (24.11.1999) by S.I. 1999/3088, regs. 7, 8

SCh. 7 Pt. II applied (with modifications) (26.3.2001) by 2000 c. 26, s. 20(1)(2)(c); S.I. 2000/2957, art. 2(3), Sch. 3

Sch. 7 Pt. II applied (with modifications) (26.3.2001) by 2000 c. 26, s. 20(4)(5)(c); S.I. 2000/2957, art. 2(3), Sch. 3

Sch. 7 Pt. II applied (with modifications) (30.11.2000) by 1993 c. 43, Sch. 4A, para. 10(2)(b) (as inserted (30.11.2000) by 2000 c. 38, ss. 231, 275(4), Sch. 24

Sch. 7 Pt. II applied (with modifications) (1.10.2001) by 1989 c. 29, s. 14A(13)(d) (as inserted (1.10.2001) by 2000 c. 27, s. 39 (with s. 104(1)(2)(6)); S.I. 2001/3266, art. 2, Sch. (subject to arts. 3-20))

Sch. 7 Pt. II applied (with modifications) (1.10.2001) by 1989 c. 29, s. 56C(8)(b) (as inserted (1.10.2001) by 2000 c. 27, s. 43 (with s. 104(1)(2)(6)); S.I. 2001/3266, art. 2, Sch. (subject to arts. 3-20))

Sch. 7 Pt. II applied (with modifications) (1.2.2001) by 2000 c. 38, s. 12(10)(c) (with s. 106); S.I. 2001/57, art. 3(1), Sch. 2 Pt. I

Sch. 7 Pt. II applied (with modifications) (1.2.2001) by 2000 c. 38, s. 18(2)(e) (with s. 106); S.I. 2001/57, art. 3(1), Sch. 2 Pt. I

Sch. 7 Pt. II applied (with modifications) (1.10.2001) by Gas Act 1986 c. 44, s. 26A(13)(d) (as inserted (1.10.2001) by 2000 c. 27, s. 83(4) (with s. 104(1)(2)(6)); S.I. 2001/3266, art. 2, Sch. (subject to arts. 3-20))

SCh. 7 Pt. II applied (with modifications) (1.10.2001) by Gas Act 1986 c. 44, s. 41E (8)(b) (as inserted (1.10.2001) by 2000 c. 27, s. 88 (with s. 104(1)(2)(6)); S.I. 2001/3266, art. 2, Sch. (subject to arts. 3-20))

Sch. 7 Pt. II applied (with modifications) (1.10.2001) by 1986 c. 44, s. 26A(12)-(14) (as inserted (1.10.2001) by 2000 c. 27, s. 83(4) (with s. 104(1)(2)(6)); S.I. 2001/3266, art. 2, Sch. (subject to arts. 3-20))

Interpretation

14

In this Part of this Schedule “group” means a group selected under paragraph 15.

Discharge of certain functions by groups

C1515

1

Except where sub-paragraph (7) F81or (8) gives the Chairman power to act on his own, any general function of the Commission must be performed through a group selected for the purpose by the Chairman.

2

The group must consist of at least three persons one of whom may be the Chairman.

3

In selecting the members of the group, the Chairman must comply with any requirement as to its constitution imposed by any enactment applying to specialist panel members.

4

If the functions to be performed through the group relate to a newspaper merger reference, the group must, subject to sub-paragraph (5), consist of such reporting panel members as the Chairman may select.

F565

The Chairman must select one or more newspaper panel members to be members of the group dealing with functions relating to a newspaper merger reference and, if he selects at least three such members, the group may consist entirely of those members.

6

Subject to sub-paragraphs (2) to (5), a group must consist of reporting panel members or specialist panel members selected by the Chairman.

C7C127

While a group is being constituted to perform a particular general function of the Commission, the Chairman may—

a

take such steps (falling within that general function) as he considers appropriate to facilitate the work of the group when it has been constituted; or

F165b

exercise the power conferred by section 75(5) of the 1973 Act (setting aside references).

F808

The Chairman may exercise the power conferred by section 37(1), 48(1) or 64(1) of the Enterprise Act 2002 while a group is being constituted to perform a relevant general function of the Commission or, when it has been so constituted, before it has held its first meeting.

Chairmen of groups

16

The Chairman must appoint one of the members of a group to act as the chairman of the group.

Replacement of member of group

17

1

If, during the proceedings of a group—

a

a member of the group ceases to be a member of the Commission,

b

the Chairman is satisfied that a member of the group will be unable for a substantial period to perform his duties as a member of the group, or

c

it appears to the Chairman that because of a particular interest of a member of the group it is inappropriate for him to remain in the group,

the Chairman may appoint a replacement.

2

The Chairman may also at any time appoint any reporting panel member to be an additional member of a group.

Attendance of other members

18

1

At the invitation of the chairman of a group, any reporting panel member who is not a member of the group may attend meetings or otherwise take part in the proceedings of the group.

2

But any person attending in response to such an invitation may not—

a

vote in any proceedings of the group; or

b

have a statement of his dissent from a conclusion of the group included in a report made by them.

3

Nothing in sub-paragraph (1) is to be taken to prevent a group, or a member of a group, from consulting any member of the Commission with respect to any matter or question with which the group is concerned.

Procedure

19

1

Subject to any special or general directions given by the Secretary of State, each group may determine its own procedure.

2

Each group may, in particular, determine its quorum and determine—

a

the extent, if any, to which persons interested or claiming to be interested in the subject-matter of the reference are allowed—

i

to be present or to be heard, either by themselves or by their representatives;

ii

to cross-examine witnesses; or

iii

otherwise to take part; and

b

the extent, if any, to which sittings of the group are to be held in public.

3

In determining its procedure a group must have regard to any guidance issued by the Chairman.

4

Before issuing any guidance for the purposes of this paragraph the Chairman must consult the members of the Commission.

F825

This paragraph does not apply to groups for which rules must be made under paragraph 19A.

C16F7119A

1

The Chairman must make rules of procedure in relation to merger reference groups, market reference groups and special reference groups.

2

Schedule 7A makes further provision about rules made under this paragraph but is not to be taken as restricting the Chairman’s powers under this paragraph.

3

The Chairman must publish rules made under this paragraph in such manner as he considers appropriate for the purpose of bringing them to the attention of those likely to be affected by them.

4

The Chairman must consult the members of the Commission and such other persons as he considers appropriate before making rules under this paragraph.

5

Rules under this paragraph may—

a

make different provision for different cases or different purposes;

b

be varied or revoked by subsequent rules made under this paragraph.

6

Subject to rules made under this paragraph, each merger reference group, market reference group and special reference group may determine its own procedure.

7

In determining how to proceed in accordance with rules made under this paragraph and in determining its procedure under sub-paragraph (6), a group must have regard to any guidance issued by the Chairman.

8

Before issuing any guidance for the purposes of this paragraph the Chairman shall consult the members of the Commission and such other persons as he considers appropriate.

9

In this paragraph and in Schedule 7A—

  • market reference group” means any group constituted in connection with a reference under section 131 or 132 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (including that section as it has effect by virtue of another enactment);

  • merger reference group” means any group constituted in connection with a reference under F138... section 32 of the Water Industry Act 1991 (c. 56) or section 22, 33, 45 or 62 of the Enterprise Act 2002; and

  • special reference group” means any group constituted in connection with a reference or (in the case of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (c. 8)) an investigation under—

    1. a

      section 11 of the Competition Act 1980 (c. 21);

    2. b

      F138...

    3. c

      section 43 of the Airports Act 1986 (c. 31);

    4. d

      section F184... 41E of the Gas Act 1986 (c. 44);

    5. e

      section F185... 56C of the Electricity Act 1989 (c. 29);

    6. f

      F138...

    7. g

      section 12 F177, 14 or 17K of the Water Industry Act 1991 (c. 56);

    8. h

      article 15 of the Electricity (Northern Ireland) Order 1992 (S.I. 1992/231 (N.I. 1));

    9. i

      section 13 of, or Schedule 4A to, the Railways Act 1993 (c. 43);

    10. j

      article 34 of the Airports (Northern Ireland) Order 1994 (S.I. 1994/426 (N.I. 1));

    11. k

      article 15 of the Gas (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 (S.I. 1996/275 (N.I. 2));

    12. l

      F183...

    13. m

      section 162 or 306 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (c. 8); F138...

    14. n

      section 12 of the Transport Act 2000 (c. 38). F174...

    15. o

      F126section 193 of the Communications Act 2003F175; or

    16. p

      F175article 3 of the Water Services etc. (Scotland) Act 2005 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2005.

Effect of exercise of functions by group

C19C17C1820

1

Subject to F166sub-paragraph (2)F166sub-paragraphs (2) to (9), anything done by or in relation to a group in, or in connection with, the performance of functions to be performed by the group is to have the same effect as if done by or in relation to the Commission.

F1672

For the purposes of—

C8a

sections 56 and 73 of the 1973 Act,

b

section 19A of the M15Agricultural Marketing Act 1958,

c

Articles 23 and 42 of the M16Agricultural Marketing (Northern Ireland) Order 1982,

a conclusion contained in a report of a group is to be disregarded if the conclusion is not that of at least two-thirds of the members of the group.

F1672

For the purposes of Part 3 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (mergers) any decision of a group under section 35(1) or 36(1) of that Act (questions to be decided on non-public interest merger references) that there is an anti-competitive outcome is to be treated as a decision under that section that there is not an anti-competitive outcome if the decision is not that of at least two-thirds of the members of the group.

3

For the purposes of Part 3 of the Act of 2002, if the decision is not that of at least two-thirds of the members of the group—

a

any decision of a group under section 47 of that Act (questions to be decided on public interest merger references) that a relevant merger situation has been created is to be treated as a decision under that section that no such situation has been created;

b

any decision of a group under section 47 of that Act that the creation of a relevant merger situation has resulted, or may be expected to result, in a substantial lessening of competition within any market or markets in the United Kingdom for goods or services is to be treated as a decision under that section that the creation of that situation has not resulted, or may be expected not to result, in such a substantial lessening of competition;

c

any decision of a group under section 47 of that Act that arrangements are in progress or in contemplation which, if carried into effect, will result in the creation of a relevant merger situation is to be treated as a decision under that section that no such arrangements are in progress or in contemplation; and

d

any decision of a group under section 47 of that Act that the creation of such a situation as is mentioned in paragraph (c) may be expected to result in a substantial lessening of competition within any market or markets in the United Kingdom for goods or services is to be treated as a decision under that section that the creation of that situation may be expected not to result in such a substantial lessening of competition.

4

For the purposes of Part 3 of the Act of 2002, if the decision is not that of at least two-thirds of the members of the group—

a

any decision of a group under section 63 of that Act (questions to be decided on special public interest merger references) that a special merger situation has been created is to be treated as a decision under that section that no such situation has been created; and

b

any decision of a group under section 63 of that Act that arrangements are in progress or in contemplation which, if carried into effect, will result in the creation of a special merger situation is to be treated as a decision under that section that no such arrangements are in progress or in contemplation.

5

For the purposes of Part 4 of the Act of 2002 (market investigations), if the decision is not that of at least two-thirds of the members of the group, any decision of a group under section 134 or 141 (questions to be decided on market investigation references) that a feature, or combination of features, of a relevant market prevents, restricts or distorts competition in connection with the supply or acquisition of any goods or services in the United Kingdom or a part of the United Kingdom is to be treated as a decision that the feature or (as the case may be) combination of features does not prevent, restrict or distort such competition.

6

Accordingly, for the purposes of Part 4 of the Act of 2002, a group is to be treated as having decided under section 134 or 141 that there is no adverse effect on competition if—

a

one or more than one decision of the group is to be treated as mentioned in sub-paragraph (5); and

b

there is no other relevant decision of the group.

7

In sub-paragraph (6) “relevant decision” means a decision which is not to be treated as mentioned in sub-paragraph (5) and which is that a feature, or combination of features, of a relevant market prevents, restricts or distorts competition in connection with the supply or acquisition of any goods or services in the United Kingdom or a part of the United Kingdom.

8

Expressions used in sub-paragraphs (2) to (7) shall be construed in accordance with Part 3 or (as the case may be) 4 of the Act of 2002.

9

Sub-paragraph (1) is also subject to specific provision made by or under other enactments about decisions which are not decisions of at least two-thirds of the members of a group.

Casting votes

21

The chairman of a group is to have a casting vote on any question to be decided by the group.

Newspaper merger references

22

F57There are to be members of the Commission appointed by the Secretary of State to form a panel of persons available for selection as members of a group constituted in connection with a newspaper merger reference.

F14Part III Appeals

Annotations:
Amendments (Textual)
F14

Sch. 7 Pt. III repealed (1.4.2003) by Enterprise Act 2002 (c. 40), s. 279, Sch. 5 para. 7(6), Sch. 26; S.I. 2003/766, art. 2, Sch. (with art. 3) (as amended (20.7.2007) by S.I. 2007/1846, reg. 3(2), Sch.)

F14 Interpretation

F1423

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F14 Training of appeal panel members

F1424

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F14 Acting President

F1425

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F14 Panel of tribunal chairmen

F1426

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F14 Constitution of tribunals

F1427

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Part IV Miscellaneous

Disqualification of members for House of Commons

28

In Part II of Schedule 1 to the M17House of Commons Disqualification Act 1975 (bodies of which all members are disqualified) insert at the appropriate place— “ The Competition Commission ”.

Disqualification of members for Northern Ireland Assembly

29

In Part II of Schedule 1 to the M18Northern Ireland Assembly Disqualification Act 1975 (bodies of which all members are disqualified) insert at the appropriate place— “ The Competition Commission ”.

Part V Transitional provisions

Interpretation

30

In this Part of this Schedule—

  • commencement date” means the date on which section 45 comes into force; and

  • MMC” means the Monopolies and Mergers Commission.

Chairman

31

1

The person who is Chairman of the MMC immediately before the commencement date is on that date to become both a member of the Commission and its chairman as if he had been duly appointed under paragraphs 2(1)(b) and 3.

2

He is to hold office as Chairman of the Commission for the remainder of the period for which he was appointed as Chairman of the MMC and on the terms on which he was so appointed.

Deputy chairmen

32

The persons who are deputy chairmen of the MMC immediately before the commencement date are on that date to become deputy chairmen of the Commission as if they had been duly appointed under paragraph 3(2).

Reporting panel members

33

1

The persons who are members of the MMC immediately before the commencement date are on that date to become members of the Commission as if they had been duly appointed under paragraph 2(1)(b).

2

Each of them is to hold office as a member for the remainder of the period for which he was appointed as a member of the MMC and on the terms on which he was so appointed.

Specialist panel members

34

1

The persons who are members of the MMC immediately before the commencement date by virtue of appointments made under any of the enactments mentioned in paragraph 2(1)(d) are on that date to become members of the Commission as if they had been duly appointed to the Commission under the enactment in question.

2

Each of them is to hold office as a member for such period and on such terms as the Secretary of State may determine.

Secretary

35

The person who is the secretary of the MMC immediately before the commencement date is on that date to become the secretary of the Commission as if duly appointed under paragraph 9, on the same terms and conditions.

Council

36

1

The members who become deputy chairmen of the Commission under paragraph 32 are also to become members of the Council as if they had been duly appointed under paragraph 5(2)(c).

2

Each of them is to hold office as a member of the Council for such period as the Secretary of State determines.

F72SCHEDULE 7Athe competition commission: procedural rules for mergers and market references etc.

Annotations:
Amendments (Textual)

C201

In this Schedule—

  • market investigation” means an investigation carried out by a market reference group in connection with a reference under section 131 or 132 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (including that section as it has effect by virtue of another enactment);

  • market reference group” has the meaning given by paragraph 19A(9) of Schedule 7 to this Act;

  • merger investigation” means an investigation carried out by a merger reference group in connection with a reference under F139... section 32 of the Water Industry Act 1991 (c. 56) or section 22, 33, 45 or 62 of the Act of 2002;

  • merger reference group” has the meaning given by paragraph 19A(9) of Schedule 7 to this Act;

  • relevant group” means a market reference group, merger reference group or special reference group;

  • special investigation” means an investigation carried out by a special reference group—

    1. a

      in connection with a reference under a provision mentioned in any of paragraphs (a) to (l) F176and (n) to (p) of the definition of “special reference group” in paragraph 19A(9) of Schedule 7 to this Act; or

    2. b

      under a provision mentioned in paragraph (m) of that definition; and

  • special reference group” has the meaning given by paragraph 19A(9) of Schedule 7 to this Act.

2

Rules may make provision—

a

for particular stages of a merger investigation, a market investigation or a special investigation to be dealt with in accordance with a timetable and for the revision of that timetable;

b

as to the documents and information which must be given to a relevant group in connection with a merger investigation, a market investigation or a special investigation;

c

as to the documents or information which a relevant group must give to other persons in connection with such an investigation.

3

Rules made by virtue of paragraph 2(a) and (b) may, in particular, enable or require a relevant group to disregard documents or information given after a particular date.

4

Rules made by virtue of paragraph 2(c) may, in particular, make provision for the notification or publication of, and for consultation about, provisional findings of a relevant group.

5

Rules may make provision as to the quorum of relevant groups.

6

Rules may make provision—

a

as to the extent (if any) to which persons interested or claiming to be interested in a matter under consideration which is specified or described in the rules are allowed—

i

to be (either by themselves or by their representatives) present before a relevant group or heard by that group;

ii

to cross-examine witnesses; or

iii

otherwise to take part;

b

as to the extent (if any) to which sittings of a relevant group are to be held in public; and

c

generally in connection with any matters permitted by rules made under paragraph (a) or (b) (including, in particular, provision for a record of any hearings).

7

Rules may make provision for—

a

the notification or publication of information in relation to merger investigations, market investigations or special investigations;

b

consultation about such investigations.

SCHEDULE 8 Appeals

Sections 46(5) and 48(4).

Part I General

Interpretation

F581

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

General procedure

2

1

An appeal to the F60Tribunal under section 46 or 47 must be made by sending a notice of appeal to it within the specified period.

C102

The notice of appeal must set out the grounds of appeal in sufficient detail to indicate—

a

under which provision of this Act the appeal is brought;

b

to what extent (if any) the appellant contends that the decision against, or with respect to which, the appeal is brought was based on an error of fact or was wrong in law; and

c

to what extent (if any) the appellant is appealing against the F62OFT’s exercise of its discretion in making the disputed decision.

3

The F61Tribunal may give an appellant leave to amend the grounds of appeal identified in the notice of appeal.

F594

In this paragraph references to the Tribunal are to the Tribunal as constituted (in accordance with section 14 of the Enterprise Act 2002) for the purposes of the proceedings in question.

5

Nothing in this paragraph restricts the power under section 15 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Tribunal rules) to make provision as to the manner of instituting proceedings before the Tribunal.

Decisions of the tribunal

3

F152A1

This paragraph applies to any appeal under section 46 or 47 other than—

a

an appeal under section 46 against, or with respect to, a decision of the kind specified in subsection (3)(g) or (h) of that section, and

b

an appeal under section 47(1)(b) or (c).

1

The F63Tribunal must determine the appeal on the merits by reference to the grounds of appeal set out in the notice of appeal.

2

The F63Tribunal may confirm or set aside the decision which is the subject of the appeal, or any part of it, and may—

a

remit the matter to the F15OFT,

b

impose or revoke, or vary the amount of, a penalty,

c

F153grant or cancel an individual exemption or vary any conditions or obligations imposed in relation to the exemption by the F15OFT,

d

give such directions, or take such other steps, as the F15OFT could F64itself have given or taken, or

e

make any other decision which the F15OFT could F64itself have made.

3

Any decision of the F63Tribunal on an appeal has the same effect, and may be enforced in the same manner, as a decision of the F15OFT.

4

If the F63Tribunal confirms the decision which is the subject of the appeal it may nevertheless set aside any finding of fact on which the decision was based.

F1463A

1

This paragraph applies to—

a

any appeal under section 46 against, or with respect to, a decision of the kind specified in subsection (3)(g) or (h) of that section, and

b

any appeal under section 47(1)(b) or (c).

2

The Tribunal must, by reference to the grounds of appeal set out in the notice of appeal, determine the appeal by applying the same principles as would be applied by a court on an application for judicial review.

3

The Tribunal may—

a

dismiss the appeal or quash the whole or part of the decision to which it relates; and

b

where it quashes the whole or part of that decision, remit the matter back to the OFT with a direction to reconsider and make a new decision in accordance with the ruling of the Tribunal.

F164

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Part II Rules

Registrar of Appeal Tribunals

F165

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Notice of appeal

F166

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Response to the appeal

F167

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Pre-hearing reviews and preliminary matters

F168

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Conduct of the hearing

F169

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Interest

F1610

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Fees

F1611

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Withdrawing an appeal

F1612

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Interim orders

F1613

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Miscellaneous

F1614

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SCHEDULE 9F17OFT’s Rules

Section 51(2).

Annotations:
Amendments (Textual)
F17

Words in Sch. 9 substituted (1.4.2003) by Enterprise Act 2002 (c. 40), s. 279, Sch. 25 para. 38(55); S.I. 2003/766, art. 2, Sch. (with art. 3) (as amended (20.7.2007) by S.I. 2007/1846, reg. 3(2), Sch.)

General

F1541

In this Schedule “rules” means rules made by the OFT under section 51.

Applications

2

F155Rules may make provision—

a

as to the form and manner in which an application for guidance or an application for a decision must be made;

b

for the procedure to be followed in dealing with the application;

c

for the application to be dealt with in accordance with a timetable;

d

as to the documents and information which must be given to the F17OFT in connection with the application;

e

requiring the applicant to give such notice of the application, to such other persons, as may be specified;

f

as to the consequences of a failure to comply with any rule made by virtue of sub-paragraph (e);

g

as to the procedure to be followed when the application is subject to the concurrent jurisdiction of the F17OFT and a regulator.

Provisional decisions

3

F156Rules may make provision as to the procedure to be followed by the F17OFT when making a provisional decision under paragraph 3 of Schedule 5 or paragraph 3 of Schedule 6.

Guidance

4

F157Rules may make provision as to—

a

the form and manner in which guidance is to be given;

b

the procedure to be followed if—

i

the F17OFT takes further action with respect to an agreement after giving guidance that it is not likely to infringe the Chapter I prohibition; or

ii

the F17OFT takes further action with respect to conduct after giving guidance that it is not likely to infringe the Chapter II prohibition.

Decisions

5

1

Rules may make provision as to—

a

the form and manner in which notice of any decision is to be given;

b

the person or persons to whom the notice is to be given;

c

the manner in which the F17OFT is to publish a decision;

F158d

the procedure to be followed if—

i

the OFT takes further action with respect to an agreement after having decided that it does not infringe the Chapter I prohibition;

ii

the OFT takes further action with respect to an agreement after having decided that it does not infringe the prohibition in F188Article 101(1);

iii

the OFT takes further action with respect to conduct after having decided that it does not infringe the Chapter II prohibition; or

iv

the OFT takes further action with respect to conduct after having decided that it does not infringe the prohibition in F189Article 102.

F1592

In this paragraph “decision” means a decision of the OFT

a

as to whether or not an agreement has infringed the Chapter I prohibition;

b

as to whether or not an agreement has infringed the prohibition in F190Article 101(1);

c

as to whether or not conduct has infringed the Chapter II prohibition; or

d

as to whether or not conduct has infringed the prohibition in F191Article 102.

Individual exemptions

6

F160Rules may make provision as to—

a

the procedure to be followed by the F17OFT when deciding whether, in accordance with section 5—

i

to cancel an individual exemption that F17it has granted,

ii

to vary or remove any of its conditions or obligations, or

iii

to impose additional conditions or obligations;

b

the form and manner in which notice of such a decision is to be given.

7

F161Rules may make provision as to—

a

the form and manner in which an application under section 4(6) for the extension of an individual exemption is to be made;

b

the circumstances in which the F17OFT will consider such an application;

c

the procedure to be followed by the F17OFT when deciding whether to grant such an application;

d

the form and manner in which notice of such a decision is to be given.

Block exemptions

F1628

Rules may make provision as to—

a

the procedure to be followed by the OFT if it cancels a block exemption;

b

the procedure to be followed by the OFT if it withdraws the benefit of a regulation of the Commission pursuant to Article 29(2) of the EC Competition Regulation.

Parallel exemptions

9

Rules may make provision as to—

a

the circumstances in which the F17OFT may—

i

impose conditions or obligations in relation to a parallel exemption,

ii

vary or remove any such conditions or obligations,

iii

impose additional conditions or obligations, or

iv

cancel the exemption;

b

as to the procedure to be followed by the F17OFT if F17it is acting under section 10(5);

c

the form and manner in which notice of a decision to take any of the steps in sub-paragraph (a) is to be given;

d

the circumstances in which an exemption may be cancelled with retrospective effect.

Section 11 exemptions

10

Rules may, with respect to any exemption provided by regulations made under section 11, make provision similar to that made with respect to parallel exemptions by section 10 or by rules under paragraph 9.

Directions withdrawing exclusions

11

F180Rules may make provision as to the factors which the F17OFT may take into account when F17it is determining the date on which a direction given under paragraph 4(1) of Schedule 1 or paragraph 2(3) or 9(3) of Schedule 3 is to have effect.

Disclosure of information

12

1

Rules may make provision as to the circumstances in which the F17OFT is to be required, before disclosing information given to F17it by a third party in connection with the exercise of any of the F17OFT’s functions under Part I, to give notice, and an opportunity to make representations, to the third party.

2

In relation to the agreement (or conduct) concerned, “third party” means a person who is not a party to the agreement (or who has not engaged in the conduct).

Applications under section 47

13

Rules may make provision as to—

a

the period within which an application under section 47(1) must be made;

b

the procedure to be followed by the F17OFT in dealing with the application;

c

the person or persons to whom notice of the F17OFT’s response to the application is to be given.

Enforcement

14

Rules may make provision as to the procedure to be followed when the F17OFT takes action under any of sections F16332 to 40 with respect to the enforcement of the provisions of this Part.

SCHEDULE 10 Regulators

Sections 54 and 66(5).

Part I Monopolies

F831

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Part II The Prohibitions

Telecommunications

I22

F1281

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F1282

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F1283

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F1284

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F1285

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F1286

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F847

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F1298

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F1309

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F8510

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Gas

I33

1

In consequence of the repeal by this Act of provisions of the M19Competition Act 1980, the functions transferred by subsection (3) of section 36A of the M20Gas Act 1986 (functions with respect to competition) are no longer exercisable by the Director General of Gas Supply.

2

Accordingly, that Act is amended as follows.

F23

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4

Section 36A is amended as follows.

5

For subsection (3) substitute—

3

The Director shall be entitled to exercise, concurrently with the Director General of Fair Trading, the functions of that Director under the provisions of Part I of the Competition Act 1998 (other than sections 38(1) to (6) and 51), so far as relating to—

a

agreements, decisions or concerted practices of the kind mentioned in section 2(1) of that Act, or

b

conduct of the kind mentioned in section 18(1) of that Act,

which relate to the carrying on of activities to which this subsection applies.

3A

So far as necessary for the purposes of, or in connection with, the provisions of subsection (3) above, references in Part I of the Competition Act 1998 to the Director General of Fair Trading are to be read as including a reference to the Director (except in sections 38(1) to (6), 51, 52(6) and (8) and 54 of that Act and in any other provision of that Act where the context otherwise requires).

F866

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7

In subsection (6), omit “or (3)”.

8

In subsection (7), for paragraph (b) substitute—

b

Part I of the Competition Act 1998 (other than sections 38(1) to (6) and 51),

F879

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F8710

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F8711

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Electricity

I44

1

In consequence of the repeal by this Act of provisions of the M21Competition Act 1980, the functions transferred by subsection (3) of section 43 of the M22Electricity Act 1989 (functions with respect to competition) are no longer exercisable by the Director General of Electricity Supply.

2

Accordingly, that Act is amended as follows.

F33

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4

Section 43 is amended as follows.

5

For subsection (3) substitute—

3

The Director shall be entitled to exercise, concurrently with the Director General of Fair Trading, the functions of that Director under the provisions of Part I of the Competition Act 1998 (other than sections 38(1) to (6) and 51), so far as relating to—

a

agreements, decisions or concerted practices of the kind mentioned in section 2(1) of that Act, or

b

conduct of the kind mentioned in section 18(1) of that Act,

which relate to commercial activities connected with the generation, transmission or supply of electricity.

3A

So far as necessary for the purposes of, or in connection with, the provisions of subsection (3) above, references in Part I of the Competition Act 1998 to the Director General of Fair Trading are to be read as including a reference to the Director (except in sections 38(1) to (6), 51, 52(6) and (8) and 54 of that Act and in any other provision of that Act where the context otherwise requires).

F886

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7

In subsection (5), omit “or (3)”.

8

In subsection (6), for paragraph (b) substitute—

b

Part I of the Competition Act 1998 (other than sections 38(1) to (6) and 51),

F899

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Water

I55

1

In consequence of the repeal by this Act of provisions of the M23Competition Act 1980, the functions exercisable by virtue of subsection (3) of section 31 of the M24Water Industry Act 1991 (functions of Director with respect to competition) are no longer exercisable by the Director General of Water Services.

2

Accordingly, that Act is amended as follows.

F1733

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4

In section 2, after subsection (6), insert—

6A

Subsections (2) to (4) above do not apply in relation to anything done by the Director in the exercise of functions assigned to him by section 31(3) below (“Competition Act functions”).

6B

The Director may nevertheless, when exercising any Competition Act function, have regard to any matter in respect of which a duty is imposed by any of subsections (2) to (4) above, if it is a matter to which the Director General of Fair Trading could have regard when exercising that function.

5

Section 31 is amended as follows.

6

For subsection (3) substitute—

3

The Director shall be entitled to exercise, concurrently with the Director General of Fair Trading, the functions of that Director under the provisions of Part I of the Competition Act 1998 (other than sections 38(1) to (6) and 51), so far as relating to—

a

agreements, decisions or concerted practices of the kind mentioned in section 2(1) of that Act, or

b

conduct of the kind mentioned in section 18(1) of that Act,

which relate to commercial activities connected with the supply of water or securing a supply of water or with the provision or securing of sewerage services.

F907

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

8

After subsection (4), insert—

4A

So far as necessary for the purposes of, or in connection with, the provisions of subsection (3) above, references in Part I of the Competition Act 1998 to the Director General of Fair Trading are to be read as including a reference to the Director (except in sections 38(1) to (6), 51, 52(6) and (8) and 54 of that Act and in any other provision of that Act where the context otherwise requires).

F919

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9110

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

11

In subsection (7), omit “or (3)”.

12

In subsection (8), for paragraph (b) substitute—

b

Part I of the Competition Act 1998 (other than sections 38(1) to (6) and 51),

F9213

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Railways

I66

1

In consequence of the repeal by this Act of provisions of the M25Competition Act 1980, the functions transferred by subsection (3) of section 67 of the M26Railways Act 1993 (respective functions of the Regulator and the Director etc) are no longer exercisable by the Rail Regulator.

2

Accordingly, that Act is amended as follows.

3

In section 4 (general duties of the Secretary of State and the Regulator), after subsection (7), insert—

7A

Subsections (1) to (6) above do not apply in relation to anything done by the Regulator in the exercise of functions assigned to him by section 67(3) below (“Competition Act functions”).

7B

The Regulator may nevertheless, when exercising any Competition Act function, have regard to any matter in respect of which a duty is imposed by any of subsections (1) to (6) above, if it is a matter to which the Director General of Fair Trading could have regard when exercising that function.

4

Section 67 is amended as follows.

5

For subsection (3) substitute—

3

The Regulator shall be entitled to exercise, concurrently with the Director, the functions of the Director under the provisions of Part I of the Competition Act 1998 (other than sections 38(1) to (6) and 51), so far as relating to—

a

agreements, decisions or concerted practices of the kind mentioned in section 2(1) of that Act, or

b

conduct of the kind mentioned in section 18(1) of that Act,

which relate to the supply of railway services.

3A

So far as necessary for the purposes of, or in connection with, the provisions of subsection (3) above, references in Part I of the Competition Act 1998 to the Director are to be read as including a reference to the Regulator (except in sections 38(1) to (6), 51, 52(6) and (8) and 54 of that Act and in any other provision of that Act where the context otherwise requires).

F936

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7

In subsection (6)(a), omit “or (3)”.

8

In subsection (8), for paragraph (b) substitute—

b

Part I of the Competition Act 1998 (other than sections 38(1) to (6) and 51),

F949

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Part III The Prohibitions: Northern Ireland

Electricity

I77

1

In consequence of the repeal by this Act of provisions of the M27Competition Act 1980, the functions transferred by paragraph (3) of Article 46 of the M28Electricity (Northern Ireland) Order 1992 (functions with respect to competition) are no longer exercisable by the Director General of Electricity Supply for Northern Ireland.

2

Accordingly, that Order is amended as follows.

3

F65In Article 6 (general duties of the Director), after paragraph (2), add—

3

Paragraph (1) does not apply in relation to anything done by the Director in the exercise of functions assigned to him by Article 46(3) (“Competition Act functions”).

4

The Director may nevertheless, when exercising any Competition Act function, have regard to any matter in respect of which a duty is imposed by paragraph (1) (“a general matter”), if it is a matter to which the Director General of Fair Trading could have regard when exercising that function; but that is not to be taken as implying that, in the exercise of any function mentioned in Article 4(7) or paragraph (2), regard may not be had to any general matter.

4

Article 46 is amended as follows.

5

For paragraph (3) substitute—

3

The Director shall be entitled to exercise, concurrently with the Director General of Fair Trading, the functions of that Director under the provisions of Part I of the Competition Act 1998 (other than sections 38(1) to (6) and 51), so far as relating to—

a

agreements, decisions or concerted practices of the kind mentioned in section 2(1) of that Act, or

b

conduct of the kind mentioned in section 18(1) of that Act,

which relate to commercial activities connected with the generation, transmission or supply of electricity.

3A

So far as necessary for the purposes of, or in connection with, the provisions of paragraph (3), references in Part I of the Competition Act 1998 to the Director General of Fair Trading are to be read as including a reference to the Director (except in sections 38(1) to (6), 51, 52(6) and (8) and 54 of that Act and in any other provision of that Act where the context otherwise requires).

F956

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7

In paragraph (5), omit “or (3)”.

8

In paragraph (6), for sub-paragraph (b) substitute—

b

Part I of the Competition Act 1998 (other than sections 38(1) to (6) and 51),

F969

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Gas

I88

1

In consequence of the repeal by this Act of provisions of the M29Competition Act 1980, the functions transferred by paragraph (3) of Article 23 of the M30Gas (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 (functions with respect to competition) are no longer exercisable by the Director General of Gas for Northern Ireland.

2

Accordingly, that Order is amended as follows.

3

F66In Article 5 (general duties of the Department and Director), after paragraph (4), insert—

4A

Paragraphs (2) to (4) do not apply in relation to anything done by the Director in the exercise of functions assigned to him by Article 23(3) (“Competition Act functions”).

4B

The Director may nevertheless, when exercising any Competition Act function, have regard to any matter in respect of which a duty is imposed by any of paragraphs (2) to (4), if it is a matter to which the Director General of Fair Trading could have regard when exercising that function.

4

Article 23 is amended as follows.

5

For paragraph (3) substitute—

3

The Director shall be entitled to exercise, concurrently with the Director General of Fair Trading, the functions of that Director under the provisions of Part I of the Competition Act 1998 (other than sections 38(1) to (6) and 51), so far as relating to—

a

agreements, decisions or concerted practices of the kind mentioned in section 2(1) of that Act, or

b

conduct of the kind mentioned in section 18(1) of that Act,

connected with the conveyance, storage or supply of gas.

3A

So far as necessary for the purposes of, or in connection with, the provisions of paragraph (3), references in Part I of the Competition Act 1998 to the Director General of Fair Trading are to be read as including a reference to the Director (except in sections 38(1) to (6), 51, 52(6) and (8) and 54 of that Act and in any other provision of that Act where the context otherwise requires).

F976

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7

In paragraph (5), omit “or (3)”.

8

In paragraph (6), for sub-paragraph (b) substitute—

b

Part I of the Competition Act 1998 (other than sections 38(1) to (6) and 51),

F989

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9810

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F9811

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Part IV Utilities: Minor and Consequential Amendments

The Telecommunications Act 1984 (c.12)

I99

1

The Telecommunications Act 1984 is amended as follows.

F1312

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F1313

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F1314

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F995

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F1326

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7

In section 101(3) (general restrictions on disclosure of information)—

a

omit paragraphs (d) and (e) (which refer to the Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976 and the M31Resale Prices Act 1976);

b

after paragraph (m), insert—

n

the Competition Act 1998

8

At the end of section 101, insert—

6

Information obtained by the Director in the exercise of functions which are exercisable concurrently with the Director General of Fair Trading under Part I of the Competition Act 1998 is subject to sections 55 and 56 of that Act (disclosure) and not to subsections (1) to (5) of this section.

The Gas Act 1986 (c.44)

I1010

1

The Gas Act 1986 is amended as follows.

F1012

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3

In section 25, omit subsection (2) (which falls with the repeal of the M32Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976).

F1004

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5

In section 28 (orders for securing compliance with certain provisions), in subsection (5), after paragraph (aa), omit “or” and after paragraph (b), insert

or

c

that the most appropriate way of proceeding is under the Competition Act 1998.

6

In section 42(3) (general restrictions on disclosure of information)—

a

omit paragraphs (e) and (f) (which refer to the Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976 and the M33Resale Prices Act 1976);

b

after paragraph (n), insert—

o

the Competition Act 1998

7

At the end of section 42, insert—

7

Information obtained by the Director in the exercise of functions which are exercisable concurrently with the Director General of Fair Trading under Part I of the Competition Act 1998 is subject to sections 55 and 56 of that Act (disclosure) and not to subsections (1) to (6) of this section.

The Water Act 1989 (c.15)

I1111

In section 174(3) of the Water Act 1989 (general restrictions on disclosure of information)—

a

omit paragraphs (d) and (e) (which refer to the Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976 and the Resale Prices Act 1976);

b

after paragraph (l), insert—

ll

the Competition Act 1998

Annotations:
Commencement Information
I11

Sch. 10 para. 11 wholly in force; Sch. 10 para. 11 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 76(3); Sch. 10 para. 11(b) in force at 11.1.1999 by S.I. 1998/3166, art. 2, Sch.; Sch. 10 para. 11(a) in force at 1.3.2000 by S.I. 2000/344, art. 2, Sch.

The Electricity Act 1989 (c.29)

I1212

1

The Electricity Act 1989 is amended as follows.

2

In section 12 (modification references to Competition Commission), for subsections (8) and (9) substitute—

8

The provisions mentioned in subsection (8A) are to apply in relation to references under this section as if—

a

the functions of the Competition Commission in relation to those references were functions under the 1973 Act;

b

the expression “merger reference” included a reference under this section;

c

in section 70 of the 1973 Act—

i

references to the Secretary of State were references to the Director, and

ii

the reference to three months were a reference to six months.

8A

The provisions are—

a

sections 70 (time limit for report on merger) and 85 (attendance of witnesses and production of documents) of the 1973 Act;

b

Part II of Schedule 7 to the Competition Act 1998 (performance of the Competition Commission’s general functions); and

c

section 24 of the 1980 Act (modification of provisions about performance of such functions).

9

For the purposes of references under this section, the Secretary of State is to appoint not less than eight members of the Competition Commission.

9A

In selecting a group to perform the Commission’s functions in relation to any such reference, the chairman of the Commission must select up to three of the members appointed under subsection (9) to be members of the group.

3

In section 13, omit subsection (2) (which falls with the repeal of the M34Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976).

F1024

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5

In section 25 (orders for securing compliance), in subsection (5), after paragraph (b), omit “or” and after paragraph (c), insert

or

d

that the most appropriate way of proceeding is under the Competition Act 1998.

F1036

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7

In section 57(3) (general restrictions on disclosure of information)—

a

omit paragraphs (d) and (e) (which refer to the M35Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976 and the M36Resale Prices Act 1976);

b

after paragraph (no), insert—

nop

the Competition Act 1998

8

At the end of section 57, insert—

7

Information obtained by the Director in the exercise of functions which are exercisable concurrently with the Director General of Fair Trading under Part I of the Competition Act 1998 is subject to sections 55 and 56 of that Act (disclosure) and not to subsections (1) to (6) of this section.

The Water Industry Act 1991 (c.56)

I1313

1

The Water Industry Act 1991 is amended as follows.

2

F164In section 12(5) (determinations under conditions of appointment)—

a

after “this Act”, insert “ or ”;

b

omit “or the 1980 Act”.

3

F164In section 14 (modification references to Competition Commission), for subsections (7) and (8) substitute—

7

The provisions mentioned in subsection (7A) are to apply in relation to references under this section as if—

a

the functions of the Competition Commission in relation to those references were functions under the 1973 Act;

b

the expression “merger reference” included a reference under this section;

c

in section 70 of the 1973 Act—

i

references to the Secretary of State were references to the Director, and

ii

the reference to three months were a reference to six months.

7A

The provisions are—

a

sections 70 (time limit for report on merger) and 85 (attendance of witnesses and production of documents) of the 1973 Act;

b

Part II of Schedule 7 to the Competition Act 1998 (performance of the Competition Commission’s general functions); and

c

section 24 of the 1980 Act (modification of provisions about performance of such functions).

8

For the purposes of references under this section, the Secretary of State is to appoint not less than eight members of the Competition Commission.

8A

In selecting a group to perform the Commission’s functions in relation to any such reference, the chairman of the Commission must select one or more of the members appointed under subsection (8) to be members of the group.

4

In section 15, omit subsection (2) (which falls with the repeal of the Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976).

5

In section 17 (modification by order under other enactments)—

a

in subsection (1), omit paragraph (b) and the “or” immediately before it;

b

in subsection (2)—

i

after paragraph (a), insert “ or ”;

ii

omit paragraph (c) and the “or” immediately before it;

c

in subsection (4), omit “or the 1980 Act”.

6

In section 19 (exceptions to duty to enforce), after subsection (1), insert—

1A

The Director shall not be required to make an enforcement order, or to confirm a provisional enforcement order, if he is satisfied that the most appropriate way of proceeding is under the Competition Act 1998.

7

In section 19(3), after “subsection (1) above”, insert “ or, in the case of the Director, is satisfied as mentioned in subsection (1A) above, ”.

F1048

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

9

After section 206(9) (restriction on disclosure of information), insert—

9A

Information obtained by the Director in the exercise of functions which are exercisable concurrently with the Director General of Fair Trading under Part I of the Competition Act 1998 is subject to sections 55 and 56 of that Act (disclosure) and not to subsections (1) to (9) of this section.

10

In Schedule 15 (disclosure of information), in Part II (enactments in respect of which disclosure may be made)—

a

omit the entries relating to the M37Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976 and the M38Resale Prices Act 1976;

b

after the entry relating to the M39Railways Act 1993, insert the entry— “ The Competition Act 1998 ”.

The Water Resources Act 1991 (c.57)

I1414

In Schedule 24 to the Water Resources Act 1991 (disclosure of information), in Part II (enactments in respect of which disclosure may be made)—

a

omit the entries relating to the Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976 and the Resale Prices Act 1976;

b

after the entry relating to the M40Coal Industry Act 1994, insert the entry— “ The Competition Act 1998 ”.

Annotations:
Commencement Information
I14

Sch. 10 para. 14 wholly in force; Sch. 10 para. 14 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 76(3); Sch. 10 para. 14(b) in force at 11.1.1999 by S.I. 1998/3166, art. 2, Sch.; Sch. 10 para. 14(a) in force at 1.3.2000 by S.I. 2000/344, art. 2, Sch.

Marginal Citations

The Railways Act 1993 (c.43)

I1515

1

The Railways Act 1993 is amended as follows.

F1062

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3

In section 14, omit subsection (2) (which falls with the repeal of the M41Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976).

F1054

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5

In section 22, after subsection (6), insert—

6A

Neither the Director General of Fair Trading nor the Regulator may exercise, in respect of an access agreement, the powers given by section 32 (enforcement directions) or section 35(2) (interim directions) of the Competition Act 1998.

6B

Subsection (6A) does not apply to the exercise of the powers given by section 35(2) in respect of conduct—

a

which is connected with an access agreement; and

b

in respect of which section 35(1)(b) of that Act applies.

6

In section 55 (orders for securing compliance), after subsection (5), insert—

5A

The Regulator shall not make a final order, or make or confirm a provisional order, in relation to a licence holder or person under closure restrictions if he is satisfied that the most appropriate way of proceeding is under the Competition Act 1998.

7

In section 55—

F4a

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

b

in subsection (11), for “subsection (10)” substitute “ subsections (5A) and (10) ”.

8

Omit section 131 (modification of Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976).

9

In section 145(3) (general restrictions on disclosure of information)—

a

omit paragraphs (d) and (e) (which refer to the M42Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976 and the M43Resale Prices Act 1976);

b

after paragraph (q), insert—

qq

the Competition Act 1998.

10

After section 145(6), insert—

6A

Information obtained by the Regulator in the exercise of functions which are exercisable concurrently with the Director General of Fair Trading under Part I of the Competition Act 1998 is subject to sections 55 and 56 of that Act (disclosure) and not to subsections (1) to (6) of this section.

Part V Minor and Consequential Amendments: Northern Ireland

The Electricity (Northern Ireland) Order 1992

I1617

1

The M45Electricity (Northern Ireland) Order 1992 is amended as follows.

2

In Article 15 (modification references to Competition Commission), for paragraphs (8) and (9) substitute—

8

The provisions mentioned in paragraph (8A) are to apply in relation to references under this Article as if—

a

the functions of the Competition Commission in relation to those references were functions under the 1973 Act;

b

merger reference” included a reference under this Article;

c

in section 70 of the 1973 Act—

i

references to the Secretary of State were references to the Director, and

ii

the reference to three months were a reference to six months.

8A

The provisions are—

a

sections 70 (time limit for report on merger) and 85 (attendance of witnesses and production of documents) of the 1973 Act;

b

Part II of Schedule 7 to the Competition Act 1998 (performance of the Competition Commission’s general functions); and

c

section 24 of the 1980 Act (modification of provisions about performance of such functions).

9

The Secretary of State may appoint members of the Competition Commission for the purposes of references under this Article.

9A

In selecting a group to perform the Commission’s functions in relation to any such reference, the chairman of the Commission must select up to three of the members appointed under paragraph (9) to be members of the group.

3

In Article 16, omit paragraph (2) (which falls with the repeal of the M46Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976).

4

In Article 18 (modification by order under other statutory provisions)—

a

in paragraph (1), omit sub-paragraph (b) and the “or” immediately before it;

b

in paragraph (2)—

i

after sub-paragraph (a), insert “ or ”;

ii

omit sub-paragraph (c) and the “or” immediately before it;

c

in paragraph (3), omit “or the 1980 Act”.

5

F67In Article 28 (orders for securing compliance), in paragraph (5), after sub-paragraph (b), omit “or” and after sub-paragraph (c), insert

or

d

that the most appropriate way of proceeding is under the Competition Act 1998.

F1076

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7

F68In Article 61(3) (general restrictions on disclosure of information)—

a

omit sub-paragraphs (f) and (g) (which refer to the Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976 and the M47Resale Prices Act 1976);

b

after sub-paragraph (t), add—

u

the Competition Act 1998

8

F68At the end of Article 61, insert—

7

Information obtained by the Director in the exercise of functions which are exercisable concurrently with the Director General of Fair Trading under Part I of the Competition Act 1998 is subject to sections 55 and 56 of that Act (disclosure) and not to paragraphs (1) to (6).

9

In Schedule 12, omit paragraph 16 (which amends the M48Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976).

The Gas (Northern Ireland) Order 1996

I1718

1

The M49Gas (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 is amended as follows.

F1082

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3

In Article 16, omit paragraph (2) (which falls with the repeal of the Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976).

4

In Article 18 (modification by order under other statutory provisions)—

a

in paragraph (1), omit sub-paragraph (b) and the “or” immediately before it;

b

in paragraph (3)—

i

after sub-paragraph (a), insert “ or ”;

ii

omit sub-paragraph (c) and the “or” immediately before it;

c

in paragraph (5), omit “or the 1980 Act”.

5

F69In Article 19 (orders for securing compliance), in paragraph (5), after sub-paragraph (b), omit “or” and after sub-paragraph (c), insert

or

d

that the most appropriate way of proceeding is under the Competition Act 1998.

6

F69In Article 44(4) (general restrictions on disclosure of information)—

a

omit sub-paragraphs (f) and (g) (which refer to the Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976 and the M50Resale Prices Act 1976);

b

after sub-paragraph (u), add—

v

the Competition Act 1998

7

F70At the end of Article 44, insert—

8

Information obtained by the Director in the exercise of functions which are exercisable concurrently with the Director General of Fair Trading under Part I of the Competition Act 1998 is subject to sections 55 and 56 of that Act (disclosure) and not to paragraphs (1) to (7).

F73SCHEDULE 11 Interpretation of Section 55

Section 55(4).

Annotations:
Amendments (Textual)
F73

Sch. 11 repealed (20.6.2003) by Enterprise Act 2002 (c. 40), ss. 247(j), 279, Sch. 26; S.I. 2003/1397, art. 2(1), Sch. (with art. 6)

F73 Relevant functions

F731

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F73 Designated persons

F732

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SCHEDULE 12 Minor and Consequential Amendments

Section 74(1).

The Fair Trading Act 1973 (c.41)

I181

1

The Fair Trading Act 1973 is amended as follows.

2

Omit section 4 and Schedule 3 (which make provision in respect of the Monopolies and Mergers Commission).

3

Omit—

a

section 10(2),

b

section 54(5),

c

section 78(3),

d

paragraph 3(1) and (2) of Schedule 8,

(which fall with the repeal of the M51Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976).

F1114

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F1115

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F1116

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F1117

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

8

Omit section 45 (power of the Director to require information about complex monopoly situations).

F1109

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F14010

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F14011

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F14012

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F14013

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F10914

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

15

In section 135(1) (financial provisions)—

a

in the words before paragraph (a) and in paragraph (b), omit “or the Commission”; and

b

omit paragraph (a).

The Energy Act 1976 (c.76)

2

In the Energy Act 1976, omit section 5 (temporary relief from restrictive practices law in relation to certain agreements connected with petroleum).

The Estate Agents Act 1979 (c.38)

I193

In section 10(3) of the Estate Agents Act 1979 (restriction on disclosure of information), in paragraph (a)—

a

omit “or the M52Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976”; and

b

after “the M53Coal Industry Act 1994”, insert “ or the Competition Act 1998 ”.

The Competition Act 1980 (c.21)

I204

1

The Competition Act 1980 is amended as follows.

2

In section 11(8) (public bodies and other persons referred to the Commission), omit paragraph (b) and the “and” immediately before it.

3

F112For section 11(9) (which makes provision for certain functions of the Competition Commission under the M54Fair Trading Act 1973 to apply in relation to references under the Competition Act 1980) substitute—

9

The provisions mentioned in subsection (9A) are to apply in relation to a reference under this section as if—

a

the functions of the Competition Commission under this section were functions under the Fair Trading Act 1973;

b

the expression “merger reference” included a reference to the Commission under this section; and

c

in paragraph 20(2)(a) of Schedule 7 to the Competition Act 1998, the reference to section 56 of the Fair Trading Act 1973 were a reference to section 12 below.

9A

The provisions are—

a

sections 70 (time limit for report on merger), 84 (public interest) and 85 (attendance of witnesses and production of documents) of the Fair Trading Act 1973; and

b

Part II of Schedule 7 to the Competition Act 1998 (performance of the Competition Commission’s general functions).

4

F112In section 13 (investigation of prices directed by Secretary of State)—

a

in subsection (1), omit from “but the giving” to the end;

b

for subsection (6) substitute—

6

For the purposes of an investigation under this section the Director may, by notice in writing signed by him—

a

require any person to produce—

i

at a time and a place specified in the notice,

ii

to the Director or to any person appointed by him for the purpose,

any documents which are specified or described in the notice and which are documents in his custody or under his control and relating to any matter relevant to the investigation; or

b

require any person carrying on any business to—

i

furnish to the Director such estimates, forecasts, returns or other information as may be specified or described in the notice; and

ii

specify the time, manner and form in which any such estimates, forecasts, returns or information are to be furnished.

7

No person shall be compelled, for the purpose of any investigation under this section—

a

to produce any document which he could not be compelled to produce in civil proceedings before the High Court or, in Scotland, the Court of Session; or

b

in complying with any requirement for the furnishing of information, to give any information which he could not be compelled to give in evidence in such proceedings.

8

Subsections (6) to (8) of section 85 of the M55Fair Trading Act 1973 (enforcement provisions relating to notices requiring production of documents etc.) shall apply in relation to a notice under subsection (6) above as they apply in relation to a notice under section 85(1) but as if, in section 85(7), for the words from “any one” to “the Commission” there were substituted “the Director.”

5

In section 15 (special provisions for agricultural schemes) omit subsections (2)(b), (3) and (4).

6

In section 16 (reports), omit subsection (3).

7

In section 17 (publication etc. of reports)—

a

in subsections (1) and (3) to (5), omit “8(1)”;

b

in subsection (2), omit “8(1) or”; and

c

in subsection (6), for “sections 9, 10 or” substitute “ section ”.

8

In section 19(3) (restriction on disclosure of information), omit paragraphs (d) and (e).

9

In section 19(3), after paragraph (q), insert—

r

the Competition Act 1998

10

In section 19(5)(a), omit “or in anything published under section 4(2)(a) above”.

11

Omit section 22 (which amends the M56Fair Trading Act 1973).

F11312

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

13

Omit sections 25 to 30 (amendments of the M57Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976).

14

In section 31 (orders and regulations)—

a

omit subsection (2); and

b

in subsection (3), omit “10”.

15

In section 33 (short title etc)—

F114a

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

b

omit subsections (3) and (4).

Magistrates’ Courts (Northern Ireland) Order 1981 (S.I. 1981/1675 (N.I. 26))

5

In Schedule 6 to the Magistrates’ Courts (Northern Ireland) Order 1981, omit paragraphs 42 and 43 (which amend the Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976).

Agricultural Marketing (Northern Ireland) Order 1982 (S.I. 1982/1080 (N.I. 12))

I216

In Schedule 8 to the Agricultural Marketing (Northern Ireland) Order 1982—

a

omit the entry relating to paragraph 16(2) of Schedule 3 to the M58Fair Trading Act 1973; and

b

in the entry relating to the M59Competition Act 1980—

i

for “sections” substitute “ section ”;

ii

omit “and 15(3)”.

The Airports Act 1986 (c.31)

F1157

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Financial Services Act 1986 (c.60)

8

In Schedule 11 to the Financial Services Act 1986, in paragraph 12—

a

in sub-paragraph (1), omit “126”;

b

omit sub-paragraph (2).

The Companies Consolidation (Consequential Provisions)(Northern Ireland) Order 1986 (S.I. 1986/1035 (N.I. 9))

9

In Part II of Schedule 1 to the M60Companies Consolidation (Consequential Provisions)(Northern Ireland) Order 1986, omit the entries relating to the M61Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976 and the Resale Prices Act 1976.

The Consumer Protection Act 1987 (c.43)

I2210

In section 38(3) of the Consumer Protection Act 1987 (restrictions on disclosure of information)—

a

omit paragraphs (e) and (f); and

b

after paragraph (o), insert—

p

the Competition Act 1998.

Annotations:
Commencement Information
I22

Sch. 12 para. 10 wholly in force; Sch. 12 para. 10 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 76(3); Sch. 12 para. 10(b) in force at 11.1.1999 by S.I. 1998/3166, art. 2, Sch.; Sch. 12 para. 10(a) in force at 1.3.2000 by S.I. 2000/344, art. 2, Sch.

The Channel Tunnel Act 1987 (c.53)

F11611

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Road Traffic (Consequential Provisions) Act 1988 (c.54)

12

In Schedule 3 to the Road Traffic (Consequential Provisions) Act 1988 (consequential amendments), omit paragraph 19.

The Companies Act 1989 (c.40)

13

In Schedule 20 to the Companies Act 1989 (amendments about mergers and related matters), omit paragraphs 21 to 24.

The Broadcasting Act 1990 (c.42)

F11714

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Tribunals and Inquiries Act 1992 (c.53)

15

In Schedule 1 to the Tribunals and Inquiries Act 1992 (tribunals under the supervision of the Council on Tribunals), after paragraph 9, insert—

Competition

9A. An appeal tribunal established under section 48 of the Competition Act 1998.

The Osteopaths Act 1993 (c.21)

F11816

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Chiropractors Act 1994 (c.17)

F11917

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Coal Industry Act 1994 (c.21)

I2318

In section 59(4) of the Coal Industry Act 1994 (information to be kept confidential by the Coal Authority)—

a

omit paragraphs (e) and (f); and

b

after paragraph (m), insert—

n

the Competition Act 1998.

Annotations:
Commencement Information
I23

Sch. 12 para. 18 wholly in force; Sch. 12 para. 18 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 76(3); Sch. 12 para. 18(b) in force at 11.1.1999 by S.I. 1998/3166, art. 2, Sch.; Sch. 12 para. 18(a) in force at 1.3.2000 by S.I. 2000/344, art. 2, Sch.

The Deregulation and Contracting Out Act 1994 (c.40)

19

1

The Deregulation and Contracting Out Act 1994 is amended as follows.

2

Omit—

a

section 10 (restrictive trade practices: non-notifiable agreements); and

b

section 11 (registration of commercially sensitive information).

3

In section 12 (anti-competitive practices: competition references), omit subsections (1) to (6).

4

In Schedule 4, omit paragraph 1.

5

In Schedule 11 (miscellaneous deregulatory provisions: consequential amendments), in paragraph 4, omit sub-paragraphs (3) to (7).

The Airports (Northern Ireland) Order 1994 (S.I. 1994/426 (N.I. 1))

F12020

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Broadcasting Act 1996 (c.55)

21

In section 77 of the Broadcasting Act 1996 (which modifies the Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976 in its application to agreements relating to Channel 3 news provision), omit subsection (2).

SCHEDULE 13 Transitional Provisions and Savings

Section 74(2).

Part I General

Interpretation

1

1

In this Schedule—

  • RPA” means the M62Resale Prices Act 1976;

  • RTPA” means the Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976;

  • continuing proceedings” has the meaning given by paragraph 15;

  • the Court” means the Restrictive Practices Court;

  • Director” means the Director General of Fair Trading;

  • document” includes information recorded in any form;

  • enactment date” means the date on which this Act is passed;

  • information” includes estimates and forecasts;

  • interim period” means the period beginning on the enactment date and ending immediately before the starting date;

  • prescribed” means prescribed by an order made by the Secretary of State;

  • regulator” means any person mentioned in paragraphs (a) to (g) of paragraph 1 of Schedule 10 F5and the Civil Aviation Authority;

  • starting date” means the date on which section 2 comes into force;

  • transitional period” means the transitional period provided for in Chapters III and IV of Part IV of this Schedule.

2

Sections 30, 44, 51, 53, 55, 56, 57 and 59(3) and (4) and paragraph 12 of Schedule 9 (“the applied provisions”) apply for the purposes of this Schedule as they apply for the purposes of Part I of this Act.

3

Section 2(5) applies for the purposes of any provisions of this Schedule which are concerned with the operation of the Chapter I prohibition as it applies for the purposes of Part I of this Act.

4

In relation to any of the matters in respect of which a regulator may exercise powers as a result of paragraph 35(1), the applied provisions are to have effect as if references to the Director included references to the regulator.

5

The fact that to a limited extent the Chapter I prohibition does not apply to an agreement, because a transitional period is provided by virtue of this Schedule, does not require those provisions of the agreement in respect of which there is a transitional period to be disregarded when considering whether the agreement infringes the prohibition for other reasons.

General power to make transitional provision and savings

2

1

Nothing in this Schedule affects the power of the Secretary of State under section 75 to make transitional provisions or savings.

2

An order under that section may modify any provision made by this Schedule.

Advice and information

C213

1

The Director may publish advice and information explaining provisions of this Schedule to persons who are likely to be affected by them.

2

Any advice or information published by the Director under this paragraph is to be published in such form and manner as he considers appropriate.

Part II During the Interim Period

Block exemptions

4

1

The Secretary of State may, at any time during the interim period, make one or more orders for the purpose of providing block exemptions which are effective on the starting date.

2

An order under this paragraph has effect as if properly made under section 6.

Certain agreements to be non-notifiable agreements

5

An agreement which—

a

is made during the interim period, and

b

satisfies the conditions set out in paragraphs (a), (c) and (d) of section 27A(1) of the RTPA,

is to be treated as a non-notifiable agreement for the purposes of the RTPA.

Application of RTPA during the interim period

6

In relation to agreements made during the interim period—

a

the Director is no longer under the duty to take proceedings imposed by section 1(2)(c) of the RTPA but may continue to do so;

b

section 21 of that Act has effect as if subsections (1) and (2) were omitted; and

c

section 35(1) of that Act has effect as if the words “or within such further time as the Director may, upon application made within that time, allow” were omitted.

Guidance

C227

1

Sub-paragraphs (2) to (4) apply in relation to agreements made during the interim period.

2

An application may be made to the Director in anticipation of the coming into force of section 13 in accordance with directions given by the Director and such an application is to have effect on and after the starting date as if properly made under section 13.

3

The Director may, in response to such an application—

a

give guidance in anticipation of the coming into force of section 2; or

b

on and after the starting date, give guidance under section 15 as if the application had been properly made under section 13.

4

Any guidance so given is to have effect on and after the starting date as if properly given under section 15.

Part III On the Starting Date

Applications which fall

8

1

Proceedings in respect of an application which is made to the Court under any of the provisions mentioned in sub-paragraph (2), but which is not determined before the starting date, cease on that date.

2

The provisions are—

a

sections 2(2), 35(3), 37(1) and 40(1) of the RTPA and paragraph 5 of Schedule 4 to that Act;

b

section 4(1) of the RTPA so far as the application relates to an order under section 2(2) of that Act; and

c

section 25(2) of the RPA.

3

The power of the Court to make an order for costs in relation to any proceedings is not affected by anything in this paragraph or by the repeals made by section 1.

Orders and approvals which fall

9

1

An order in force immediately before the starting date under—

a

section 2(2), 29(1), 30(1), 33(4), 35(3) or 37(1) of the RTPA; or

b

section 25(2) of the RPA,

ceases to have effect on that date.

2

An approval in force immediately before the starting date under section 32 of the RTPA ceases to have effect on that date.

Part IV On and After the Starting Date

Chapter I General

Duty of Director to maintain register etc.

I2410

1

This paragraph applies even though the relevant provisions of the RTPA are repealed by this Act.

2

The Director is to continue on and after the starting date to be under the duty imposed by section 1(2)(a) of the RTPA to maintain a register in respect of agreements—

a

particulars of which are, on the starting date, entered or filed on the register;

b

which fall within sub-paragraph (4);

c

which immediately before the starting date are the subject of proceedings under the RTPA which do not cease on that date by virtue of this Schedule; or

d

in relation to which a court gives directions to the Director after the starting date in the course of proceedings in which a question arises as to whether an agreement was, before that date—

i

one to which the RTPA applied;

ii

subject to registration under that Act;

iii

a non-notifiable agreement for the purposes of that Act.

3

The Director is to continue on and after the starting date to be under the duties imposed by section 1(2)(a) and (b) of the RTPA of compiling a register of agreements and entering or filing certain particulars in the register, but only in respect of agreements of a kind referred to in paragraph (b), (c) or (d) of sub-paragraph (2).

4

An agreement falls within this sub-paragraph if—

a

it is subject to registration under the RTPA but—

i

is not a non-notifiable agreement within the meaning of section 27A of the RTPA, or

ii

is not one to which paragraph 5 applies;

b

particulars of the agreement have been provided to the Director before the starting date; and

c

as at the starting date no entry or filing has been made in the register in respect of the agreement.

5

Sections 23 and 27 of the RTPA are to apply after the starting date in respect of the register subject to such modifications, if any, as may be prescribed.

6

In sub-paragraph (2)(d) “court” means—

a

the High Court;

b

the Court of Appeal;

c

the Court of Session;

d

the High Court or Court of Appeal in Northern Ireland; or

F182e

the Supreme Court.

RTPA section 3 applications

I2511

1

Even though section 3 of the RTPA is repealed by this Act, its provisions (and so far as necessary that Act) are to continue to apply, with such modifications (if any) as may be prescribed—

a

in relation to a continuing application under that section; or

b

so as to allow an application to be made under that section on or after the starting date in respect of a continuing application under section 1(3) of the RTPA.

2

Continuing application” means an application made, but not determined, before the starting date.

Annotations:
Commencement Information
I25

Sch. 13 para. 11 partly in force; Sch. 13 para. 11 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 76(3); Sch. 13 para. 11 in force for certain purposes at 11.1.1999 by S.I. 1998/3166, art. 2, Sch.

RTPA section 26 applications

I2612

1

Even though section 26 of the RTPA is repealed by this Act, its provisions (and so far as necessary that Act) are to continue to apply, with such modifications (if any) as may be prescribed, in relation to an application which is made under that section, but not determined, before the starting date.

2

If an application under section 26 is determined on or after the starting date, this Schedule has effect in relation to the agreement concerned as if the application had been determined immediately before that date.

Annotations:
Commencement Information
I26

Sch. 13 para. 12 wholly in force; Sch. 13 para. 12 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 76(3); Sch. 13 para. 12(1) in force for certain purposes at 11.1.1999 by S.I. 1998/3166, art. 2, Sch.; Sch. 13 para. 12(1) and (2) fully in force at 1.3.2000 by S.I. 2000/344, art. 2, Sch.

Right to bring civil proceedings

13

1

Even though section 35 of the RTPA is repealed by this Act, its provisions (and so far as necessary that Act) are to continue to apply in respect of a person who, immediately before the starting date, has a right by virtue of section 27ZA or 35(2) of that Act to bring civil proceedings in respect of an agreement (but only so far as that right relates to any period before the starting date or, where there are continuing proceedings, the determination of the proceedings).

2

Even though section 25 of the RPA is repealed by this Act, the provisions of that section (and so far as necessary that Act) are to continue to apply in respect of a person who, immediately before the starting date, has a right by virtue of subsection (3) of that section to bring civil proceedings (but only so far as that right relates to any period before the starting date or, where there are continuing proceedings, the determination of the proceedings).

Chapter II Continuing Proceedings

The general rule

14

1

The Chapter I prohibition does not apply to an agreement at any time when the agreement is the subject of continuing proceedings under the RTPA.

2

The Chapter I prohibition does not apply to an agreement relating to goods which are the subject of continuing proceedings under section 16 or 17 of the RPA to the extent to which the agreement consists of exempt provisions.

3

In sub-paragraph (2) “exempt provisions” means those provisions of the agreement which would, disregarding section 14 of the RPA, be—

a

void as a result of section 9(1) of the RPA; or

b

unlawful as a result of section 9(2) or 11 of the RPA.

4

If the Chapter I prohibition does not apply to an agreement because of this paragraph, the provisions of, or made under, the RTPA or the RPA are to continue to have effect in relation to the agreement.

5

The repeals made by section 1 do not affect—

a

continuing proceedings; or

b

proceedings of the kind referred to in paragraph 11 or 12 of this Schedule which are continuing after the starting date.

Meaning of “continuing proceedings”

15

1

For the purposes of this Schedule “continuing proceedings” means proceedings in respect of an application made to the Court under the RTPA or the RPA, but not determined, before the starting date.

2

But proceedings under section 3 or 26 of the RTPA to which paragraph 11 or 12 applies are not continuing proceedings.

3

The question whether (for the purposes of Part III, or this Part, of this Schedule) an application has been determined is to be decided in accordance with sub-paragraphs (4) and (5).

4

If an appeal against the decision on the application is brought, the application is not determined until—

a

the appeal is disposed of or withdrawn; or

b

if as a result of the appeal the case is referred back to the Court—

i

the expiry of the period within which an appeal (“the further appeal”) in respect of the Court’s decision on that reference could have been brought had this Act not been passed; or

ii

if later, the date on which the further appeal is disposed of or withdrawn.

5

Otherwise, the application is not determined until the expiry of the period within which any party to the application would have been able to bring an appeal against the decision on the application had this Act not been passed.

RTPA section 4 proceedings

16

Proceedings on an application for an order under section 4 of the RTPA are also continuing proceedings if—

a

leave to make the application is applied for before the starting date but the proceedings in respect of that application for leave are not determined before that date; or

b

leave to make an application for an order under that section is granted before the starting date but the application itself is not made before that date.

RPA section 16 or 17 proceedings

17

Proceedings on an application for an order under section 16 or 17 of the RPA are also continuing proceedings if—

a

leave to make the application is applied for before the starting date but the proceedings in respect of that application for leave are not determined before that date; or

b

leave to make an application for an order under section 16 or 17 of the RPA is granted before the starting date, but the application itself is not made before that date.

Continuing proceedings which are discontinued

18

1

On an application made jointly to the Court by all the parties to any continuing proceedings, the Court must, if it is satisfied that the parties wish it to do so, discontinue the proceedings.

2

If, on an application under sub-paragraph (1) or for any other reason, the Court orders the proceedings to be discontinued, this Schedule has effect (subject to paragraphs 21 and 22) from the date on which the proceedings are discontinued as if they had never been instituted.

Chapter III The Transitional Period

The general rule

I2719

1

Except where this Chapter or Chapter IV provides otherwise, there is a transitional period, beginning on the starting date and lasting for one year, for any agreement made before the starting date.

2

The Chapter I prohibition does not apply to an agreement to the extent to which there is a transitional period for the agreement.

C233

The Secretary of State may by regulations provide for sections 13 to 16 and Schedule 5 to apply with such modifications (if any) as may be specified in the regulations, in respect of applications to the Director about agreements for which there is a transitional period.

Cases for which there is no transitional period

20

1

There is no transitional period for an agreement to the extent to which, immediately before the starting date, it is—

a

void under section 2(1) or 35(1)(a) of the RTPA;

b

the subject of an order under section 2(2) or 35(3) of the RTPA; or

c

unlawful under section 1, 2 or 11 of the RPA or void under section 9 of that Act.

2

There is no transitional period for an agreement to the extent to which, before the starting date, a person has acted unlawfully for the purposes of section 27ZA(2) or (3) of the RTPA in respect of the agreement.

3

There is no transitional period for an agreement to which paragraph 25(4) applies.

4

There is no transitional period for—

a

an agreement in respect of which there are continuing proceedings, or

b

an agreement relating to goods in respect of which there are continuing proceedings,

to the extent to which the agreement is, when the proceedings are determined, void or unlawful.

Continuing proceedings under the RTPA

21

In the case of an agreement which is the subject of continuing proceedings under the RTPA, the transitional period begins—

a

if the proceedings are discontinued, on the date of discontinuance;

b

otherwise, when the proceedings are determined.

Continuing proceedings under the RPA

22

1

In the case of an agreement relating to goods which are the subject of continuing proceedings under the RPA, the transitional period for the exempt provisions of the agreement begins—

a

if the proceedings are discontinued, on the date of discontinuance;

b

otherwise, when the proceedings are determined.

2

In sub-paragraph (1) “exempt provisions” has the meaning given by paragraph 14(3).

Provisions not contrary to public interest

23

1

To the extent to which an agreement contains provisions which, immediately before the starting date, are provisions which the Court has found not to be contrary to the public interest, the transitional period lasts for five years.

2

Sub-paragraph (1) is subject to paragraph 20(4).

3

To the extent to which an agreement which on the starting date is the subject of continuing proceedings is, when the proceedings are determined, found by the Court not to be contrary to the public interest, the transitional period lasts for five years.

Goods

24

1

In the case of an agreement relating to goods which, immediately before the starting date, are exempt under section 14 of the RPA, there is a transitional period for the agreement to the extent to which it consists of exempt provisions.

2

Sub-paragraph (1) is subject to paragraph 20(4).

3

In the case of an agreement relating to goods—

a

which on the starting date are the subject of continuing proceedings, and

b

which, when the proceedings are determined, are found to be exempt under section 14 of the RPA,

there is a transitional period for the agreement, to the extent to which it consists of exempt provisions.

4

In each case, the transitional period lasts for five years.

5

In sub-paragraphs (1) and (3) “exempt provisions” means those provisions of the agreement which would, disregarding section 14 of the RPA, be—

a

void as a result of section 9(1) of the RPA; or

b

unlawful as a result of section 9(2) or 11 of the RPA.

Transitional period for certain agreements

25

1

This paragraph applies to agreements—

a

which are subject to registration under the RTPA but which—

i

are not non-notifiable agreements within the meaning of section 27A of the RTPA, or

ii

are not agreements to which paragraph 5 applies; and

b

in respect of which the time for furnishing relevant particulars as required by or under the RTPA expires on or after the starting date.

2

Relevant particulars” means—

a

particulars which are required to be furnished by virtue of section 24 of the RTPA; or

b

particulars of any variation of an agreement which are required to be furnished by virtue of sections 24 and 27 of the RTPA.

3

There is a transitional period of one year for an agreement to which this paragraph applies if—

a

relevant particulars are furnished before the starting date; and

b

no person has acted unlawfully (for the purposes of section 27ZA(2) or (3) of the RTPA) in respect of the agreement.

4

If relevant particulars are not furnished by the starting date, section 35(1)(a) of the RTPA does not apply in relation to the agreement (unless sub-paragraph (5) applies).

5

This sub-paragraph applies if a person falling within section 27ZA(2) or (3) of the RTPA has acted unlawfully for the purposes of those subsections in respect of the agreement.

Special cases

26

1

In the case of an agreement in respect of which—

a

a direction under section 127(2) of the M63Financial Services Act 1986 (“the 1986 Act”) is in force immediately before the starting date, or

b

a direction under section 194A(3) of the M64Broadcasting Act 1990 (“the 1990 Act”) is in force immediately before the starting date,

the transitional period lasts for five years.

2

To the extent to which an agreement is the subject of a declaration—

a

made by the Treasury under section 127(3) of the 1986 Act, and

b

in force immediately before the starting date,

the transitional period lasts for five years.

3

Sub-paragraphs (1) and (2) do not affect the power of—

a

the Treasury to make a declaration under section 127(2) of the 1986 Act (as amended by Schedule 2 to this Act),

b

the Secretary of State to make a declaration under section 194A of the 1990 Act (as amended by Schedule 2 to this Act),

in respect of an agreement for which there is a transitional period.

Chapter IV The Utilities

General

27

In this Chapter “the relevant period” means the period beginning with the starting date and ending immediately before the fifth anniversary of that date.

Electricity

28

1

For an agreement to which, immediately before the starting date, the RTPA does not apply by virtue of a section 100 order, there is a transitional period—

a

beginning on the starting date; and

b

ending at the end of the relevant period.

2

For an agreement which is made at any time after the starting date and to which, had the RTPA not been repealed, that Act would not at the time at which the agreement is made have applied by virtue of a section 100 order, there is a transitional period—

a

beginning on the date on which the agreement is made; and

b

ending at the end of the relevant period.

3

For an agreement (whether made before or after the starting date) which, during the relevant period, is varied at any time in such a way that it becomes an agreement which, had the RTPA not been repealed, would at that time have been one to which that Act did not apply by virtue of a section 100 order, there is a transitional period—

a

beginning on the date on which the variation is made; and

b

ending at the end of the relevant period.

4

If an agreement for which there is a transitional period as a result of sub-paragraph (1), (2) or (3) is varied during the relevant period, the transitional period for the agreement continues if, had the RTPA not been repealed, the agreement would have continued to be one to which that Act did not apply by virtue of a section 100 order.

5

But if an agreement for which there is a transitional period as a result of sub-paragraph (1), (2) or (3) ceases to be one to which, had it not been repealed, the RTPA would not have applied by virtue of a section 100 order, the transitional period ends on the date on which the agreement so ceases.

6

Sub-paragraph (3) is subject to paragraph 20.

7

In this paragraph and paragraph 29—

  • section 100 order” means an order made under section 100 of the M65Electricity Act 1989; and

expressions which are also used in Part I of the Electricity Act 1989 have the same meaning as in that Part.

Electricity: power to make transitional orders

29

1

There is a transitional period for an agreement (whether made before or after the starting date) relating to the generation, transmission or supply of electricity which—

a

is specified, or is of a description specified, in an order (“a transitional order”) made by the Secretary of State (whether before or after the making of the agreement but before the end of the relevant period); and

b

satisfies such conditions as may be specified in the order.

2

A transitional order may make provision as to when the transitional period in respect of such an agreement is to start or to be deemed to have started.

3

The transitional period for such an agreement ends at the end of the relevant period.

4

But if the agreement—

a

ceases to be one to which a transitional order applies, or

b

ceases to satisfy one or more of the conditions specified in the transitional order,

the transitional period ends on the date on which the agreement so ceases.

5

Before making a transitional order, the Secretary of State must consult the Director General of Electricity Supply and the Director.

6

The conditions specified in a transitional order may include conditions which refer any matter to the Secretary of State for determination after such consultation as may be so specified.

7

In the application of this paragraph to Northern Ireland, the reference in sub-paragraph (5) to the Director General of Electricity Supply is to be read as a reference to the Director General of Electricity Supply for Northern Ireland.

Gas

30

1

For an agreement to which, immediately before the starting date, the RTPA does not apply by virtue of section 62 or a section 62 order, there is a transitional period—

a

beginning on the starting date; and

b

ending at the end of the relevant period.

2

For an agreement which is made at any time after the starting date and to which, had the RTPA not been repealed, that Act would not at the time at which the agreement is made have applied by virtue of section 62 or a section 62 order, there is a transitional period—

a

beginning on the date on which the agreement is made; and

b

ending at the end of the relevant period.

3

For an agreement (whether made before or after the starting date) which, during the relevant period, is varied at any time in such a way that it becomes an agreement which, had the RTPA not been repealed, would at that time have been one to which that Act did not apply by virtue of section 62 or a section 62 order, there is a transitional period—

a

beginning on the date on which the variation is made; and

b

ending at the end of the relevant period.

4

If an agreement for which there is a transitional period as a result of sub-paragraph (1), (2) or (3) is varied during the relevant period, the transitional period for the agreement continues if, had the RTPA not been repealed, the agreement would have continued to be one to which that Act did not apply by virtue of section 62 or a section 62 order.

5

But if an agreement for which there is a transitional period as a result of sub-paragraph (1), (2) or (3) ceases to be one to which, had it not been repealed, the RTPA would not have applied by virtue of section 62 or a section 62 order, the transitional period ends on the date on which the agreement so ceases.

6

Sub-paragraph (3) also applies in relation to a modification which is treated as an agreement made on or after 28th November 1985 by virtue of section 62(4).

7

Sub-paragraph (3) is subject to paragraph 20.

8

In this paragraph and paragraph 31—

  • section 62” means section 62 of the M66Gas Act 1986;

  • section 62 order” means an order made under section 62.

Gas: power to make transitional orders

31

1

There is a transitional period for an agreement of a description falling within section 62(2)(a) and (b) or section 62(2A)(a) and (b) which—

a

is specified, or is of a description specified, in an order (“a transitional order”) made by the Secretary of State (whether before or after the making of the agreement but before the end of the relevant period); and

b

satisfies such conditions as may be specified in the order.

2

A transitional order may make provision as to when the transitional period in respect of such an agreement is to start or to be deemed to have started.

3

The transitional period for such an agreement ends at the end of the relevant period.

4

But if the agreement—

a

ceases to be one to which a transitional order applies, or

b

ceases to satisfy one or more of the conditions specified in the transitional order,

the transitional period ends on the date when the agreement so ceases.

5

Before making a transitional order, the Secretary of State must consult the Director General of Gas Supply and the Director.

6

The conditions specified in a transitional order may include—

a

conditions which are to be satisfied in relation to a time before the coming into force of this paragraph;

b

conditions which refer any matter (which may be the general question whether the Chapter I prohibition should apply to a particular agreement) to the Secretary of State, the Director or the Director General of Gas Supply for determination after such consultation as may be so specified.

Gas: Northern Ireland

32

1

For an agreement to which, immediately before the starting date, the RTPA does not apply by virtue of an Article 41 order, there is a transitional period—

a

beginning on the starting date; and

b

ending at the end of the relevant period.

2

For an agreement which is made at any time after the starting date and to which, had the RTPA not been repealed, that Act would not at the time at which the agreement is made have applied by virtue of an Article 41 order, there is a transitional period—

a

beginning on the date on which the agreement is made; and

b

ending at the end of the relevant period.

3

For an agreement (whether made before or after the starting date) which, during the relevant period, is varied at any time in such a way that it becomes an agreement which, had the RTPA not been repealed, would at that time have been one to which that Act did not apply by virtue of an Article 41 order, there is a transitional period—

a

beginning on the date on which the variation is made; and

b

ending at the end of the relevant period.

4

If an agreement for which there is a transitional period as a result of sub-paragraph (1), (2) or (3) is varied during the relevant period, the transitional period for the agreement continues if, had the RTPA not been repealed, the agreement would have continued to be one to which that Act did not apply by virtue of an Article 41 order.

5

But if an agreement for which there is a transitional period as a result of sub-paragraph (1), (2) or (3) ceases to be one to which, had it not been repealed, the RTPA would not have applied by virtue of an Article 41 order, the transitional period ends on the date on which the agreement so ceases.

6

Sub-paragraph (3) is subject to paragraph 20.

7

In this paragraph and paragraph 33—

  • Article 41 order” means an order under Article 41 of the M67Gas (Northern Ireland) Order 1996;

  • Department” means the Department of Economic Development.

Gas: Northern Ireland – power to make transitional orders

33

1

There is a transitional period for an agreement of a description falling within Article 41(1) which—

a

is specified, or is of a description specified, in an order (“a transitional order”) made by the Department (whether before or after the making of the agreement but before the end of the relevant period); and

b

satisfies such conditions as may be specified in the order.

2

A transitional order may make provision as to when the transitional period in respect of such an agreement is to start or to be deemed to have started.

3

The transitional period for such an agreement ends at the end of the relevant period.

4

But if the agreement—

a

ceases to be one to which a transitional order applies, or

b

ceases to satisfy one or more of the conditions specified in the transitional order,

the transitional period ends on the date when the agreement so ceases.

5

Before making a transitional order, the Department must consult the Director General of Gas for Northern Ireland and the Director.

6

The conditions specified in a transitional order may include conditions which refer any matter (which may be the general question whether the Chapter I prohibition should apply to a particular agreement) to the Department for determination after such consultation as may be so specified.

Railways

34

1

In this paragraph—

  • section 131” means section 131 of the M68Railways Act 1993 (“the 1993 Act”);

  • section 131 agreement” means an agreement—

    1. a

      to which the RTPA does not apply immediately before the starting date by virtue of section 131(1); or

    2. b

      in respect of which a direction under section 131(3) is in force immediately before that date;

  • non-exempt agreement” means an agreement relating to the provision of railway services (whether made before or after the starting date) which is not a section 131 agreement; and

  • railway services” has the meaning given by section 82 of the 1993 Act.

2

For a section 131 agreement there is a transitional period of five years.

3

There is a transitional period for a non-exempt agreement to the extent to which the agreement is at any time before the end of the relevant period required or approved—

a

by the Secretary of State or the Rail Regulator in pursuance of any function assigned or transferred to him under or by virtue of any provision of the 1993 Act;

b

by or under any agreement the making of which is required or approved by the Secretary of State or the Rail Regulator in the exercise of any such function; or

c

by or under a licence granted under Part I of the 1993 Act.

4

The transitional period conferred by sub-paragraph (3)—

a

is to be taken to have begun on the starting date; and

b

ends at the end of the relevant period.

5

Sub-paragraph (3) is subject to paragraph 20.

6

Any variation of a section 131 agreement on or after the starting date is to be treated, for the purposes of this paragraph, as a separate non-exempt agreement.

The regulators

35

1

Subject to sub-paragraph (3), each of the regulators may exercise, in respect of sectoral matters and concurrently with the Director, the functions of the Director under paragraph 3, 7, 19(3), 36, 37, 38 or 39.

2

In sub-paragraph (1) “sectoral matters” means—

F133a

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

b

in the case of the Director General of Gas Supply, the matters referred to in section 36A(3) and (4) of the M69Gas Act 1986;

c

in the case of the Director General of Electricity Supply, the matters referred to in section 43(3) of the M70Electricity Act 1989;

d

in the case of the Director General of Electricity Supply for Northern Ireland, the matters referred to in Article 46(3) of the M71Electricity (Northern Ireland) Order 1992;

e

in the case of the F178Water Services Regulation Authority, the matters referred to in section 31(3) of the M72Water Industry Act 1991;

f

in the case of the Rail Regulator, the matters referred to in section 67(3) of the M73Railways Act 1993;

g

in the case of the Director General of Gas for Northern Ireland, the matters referred to in Article 23(3) of the M74Gas (Northern Ireland) Order 1996.

F6h

in the case of the Civil Aviation Authority, the supply of air traffic services within the meaning given by section 98 of the Transport Act 2000.

3

The power to give directions in paragraph 7(2) is exercisable by the Director only but if the Director is preparing directions which relate to a matter in respect of which a regulator exercises concurrent jurisdiction, he must consult that regulator.

4

Consultations conducted by the Director before the enactment date, with a view to preparing directions which have effect on or after that date, are to be taken to satisfy sub-paragraph (3).

5

References to enactments in sub-paragraph (2) are to the enactments as amended by or under this Act.

Chapter V Extending the transitional period

C2436

1

A party to an agreement for which there is a transitional period may apply to the Director, not less than three months before the end of the period, for the period to be extended.

2

The Director may (on his own initiative or on an application under sub-paragraph (1))—

a

extend a one-year transitional period by not more than twelve months;

b

extend a transitional period of any period other than one year by not more than six months.

3

An application under sub-paragraph (1) must—

a

be in such form as may be specified; and

b

include such documents and information as may be specified.

4

If the Director extends the transitional period under this paragraph, he must give notice in such form, and to such persons, as may be specified.

5

The Director may not extend a transitional period more than once.

6

In this paragraph—

  • person” has the same meaning as in Part I; and

  • specified” means specified in rules made by the Director under section 51.

Chapter VI Terminating the Transitional Period

General

C2437

1

Subject to sub-paragraph (2), the Director may by a direction in writing terminate the transitional period for an agreement, but only in accordance with paragraph 38.

2

The Director may not terminate the transitional period, nor exercise any of the powers in paragraph 38, in respect of an agreement which is excluded from the Chapter I prohibition by virtue of any of the provisions of Part I of this Act other than paragraph 1 of Schedule 1 or paragraph 2 or 9 of Schedule 3 F7or the Competition Act 1998 (Land and Vertical Agreements Exclusion) Order 2000.

Annotations:
Amendments (Textual)
F7

Words in Sch. 13 para. 37(2) inserted (1.3.2000) by S.I. 2000/311, art. 2

Circumstances in which the Director may terminate the transitional period

C2438

1

If the Director is considering whether to give a direction under paragraph 37 (“a direction”), he may in writing require any party to the agreement concerned to give him such information in connection with that agreement as he may require.

2

If at the end of such period as may be specified in rules made under section 51, a person has failed, without reasonable excuse, to comply with a requirement imposed under sub-paragraph (1), the Director may give a direction.

3

The Director may also give a direction if he considers—

a

that the agreement would, but for the transitional period or a relevant exclusion, infringe the Chapter I prohibition; and

b

that he would not be likely to grant the agreement an unconditional individual exemption.

4

For the purposes of sub-paragraph (3) an individual exemption is unconditional if no conditions or obligations are imposed in respect of it under section 4(3)(a).

5

In this paragraph—

  • person” has the same meaning as in Part I;

  • relevant exclusion” means an exclusion under paragraph 1 of Schedule 1 or paragraph 2 or 9 of Schedule 3 F8or the Competition Act 1998 (Land and Vertical Agreements Exclusion) Order 2000.

Annotations:
Amendments (Textual)
F8

Words in the definition of “relevant exclusion” in Sch. 13 para. 38(5) inserted (1.9.2000) by S.I. 2000/2031, art. 2

Procedural requirements on giving a paragraph 37 direction

C2439

1

The Director must specify in a direction under paragraph 37 (“a direction”) the date on which it is to have effect (which must not be less than 28 days after the direction is given).

2

Copies of the direction must be given to—

a

each of the parties concerned, and

b

the Secretary of State,

not less than 28 days before the date on which the direction is to have effect.

3

In relation to an agreement to which a direction applies, the transitional period (if it has not already ended) ends on the date specified in the direction unless, before that date, the direction is revoked by the Director or the Secretary of State.

4

If a direction is revoked, the Director may give a further direction in respect of the same agreement only if he is satisfied that there has been a material change of circumstance since the revocation.

5

If, as a result of paragraph 24(1) or (3), there is a transitional period in respect of provisions of an agreement relating to goods—

a

which immediately before the starting date are exempt under section 14 of the RPA, or

b

which, when continuing proceedings are determined, are found to be exempt under section 14 of the RPA,

the period is not affected by paragraph 37 or 38.

Part V The Fair Trading Act 1973

References to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission

40

1

If, on the date on which the repeal by this Act of a provision mentioned in sub-paragraph (2) comes into force, the Monopolies and Mergers Commission has not completed a reference which was made to it before that date, continued consideration of the reference may include consideration of a question which could not have been considered if the provision had not been repealed.

2

The provisions are—

a

sections 10(2), 54(5) and 78(3) and paragraph 3(1) and (2) of Schedule 8 to the Fair Trading Act 1973 (c. 41);

b

section 11(8)(b) of the Competition Act 1980 (c. 21);

c

section 14(2) of the Telecommunications Act 1984 (c. 12);

d

section 45(3) of the Airports Act 1986 (c. 31);

e

section 25(2) of the Gas Act 1986 (c. 44);

f

section 13(2) of the Electricity Act 1989 (c. 29);

g

section 15(2) of the Water Industry Act 1991 (c. 56);

h

article 16(2) of the M75Electricity (Northern Ireland) Order 1992;

i

section 14(2) of the Railways Act 1993 (c. 43);

j

article 36(3) of the M76Airports (Northern Ireland) Order 1994;

k

article 16(2) of the M77Gas (Northern Ireland) Order 1996.

Orders under Schedule 8

41

1

In this paragraph—

  • the 1973 Act” means the M78Fair Trading Act 1973;

  • agreement” means an agreement entered into before the date on which the repeal of the limiting provisions comes into force;

  • the order” means an order under section 56 or 73 of the 1973 Act;

  • the limiting provisions” means sub-paragraph (1) or (2) of paragraph 3 of Schedule 8 to the 1973 Act (limit on power to make orders under paragraph 1 or 2 of that Schedule) and includes any provision of the order included because of either of those sub-paragraphs; and

  • transitional period” means the period which—

    1. a

      begins on the day on which the repeal of the limiting provisions comes into force; and

    2. b

      ends on the first anniversary of the starting date.

2

Sub-paragraph (3) applies to any agreement to the extent to which it would have been unlawful (in accordance with the provisions of the order) but for the limiting provisions.

3

As from the end of the transitional period, the order is to have effect in relation to the agreement as if the limiting provisions had never had effect.

Part III of the Act

42

1

The repeals made by section 1 do not affect any proceedings in respect of an application which is made to the Court under Part III of the M79Fair Trading Act 1973, but is not determined, before the starting date.

2

The question whether (for the purposes of sub-paragraph (1)) an application has been determined is to be decided in accordance with sub-paragraphs (3) and (4).

3

If an appeal against the decision on the application is brought, the application is not determined until—

a

the appeal is disposed of or withdrawn; or

b

if as a result of the appeal the case is referred back to the Court—

i

the expiry of the period within which an appeal (“the further appeal”) in respect of the Court’s decision on that reference could have been brought had this Act not been passed; or

ii

if later, the date on which the further appeal is disposed of or withdrawn.

4

Otherwise, the application is not determined until the expiry of the period within which any party to the application would have been able to bring an appeal against the decision on the application had this Act not been passed.

5

Any amendment made by Schedule 12 to this Act which substitutes references to a relevant Court for references to the Court is not to affect proceedings of the kind referred to in sub-paragraph (1).

Part VI The Competition Act 1980

Undertakings

43

1

Subject to sub-paragraph (2), an undertaking accepted by the Director under section 4 or 9 of the M80Competition Act 1980 ceases to have effect on the coming into force of the repeal by this Act of that section.

2

If the undertaking relates to an agreement which on the starting date is the subject of continuing proceedings, the undertaking continues to have effect for the purposes of section 29 of the Competition Act 1980 until the proceedings are determined.

Application of sections 25 and 26

44

The repeals made by section 1 do not affect—

a

the operation of section 25 of the Competition Act 1980 in relation to an application under section 1(3) of the RTPA which is made before the starting date;

b

an application under section 26 of the Competition Act 1980 which is made before the starting date.

Part VII Miscellaneous

Disclosure of information

45

1

Section 55 of this Act applies in relation to information which, immediately before the starting date, is subject to section 41 of the RTPA as it applies in relation to information obtained under or as a result of Part I.

2

But section 55 does not apply to any disclosure of information of the kind referred to in sub-paragraph (1) if the disclosure is made—

a

for the purpose of facilitating the performance of functions of a designated person under the M81Control of Misleading Advertisements Regulations 1988; or

b

for the purposes of any proceedings before the Court or of any other legal proceedings under the RTPA or the M82Fair Trading Act 1973 or the Control of Misleading Advertisements Regulations 1988.

3

Section 56 applies in relation to information of the kind referred to in sub-paragraph (1) if particulars containing the information have been entered or filed on the special section of the register maintained by the Director under, or as a result of, section 27 of the RTPA or paragraph 10 of this Schedule.

4

Section 55 has effect, in relation to the matters as to which section 41(2) of the RTPA had effect, as if it contained a provision similar to section 41(2).

The Court

46

If it appears to the Lord Chancellor that a person who ceases to be a non-judicial member of the Court as a result of this Act should receive compensation for loss of office, he may pay to him out of moneys provided by Parliament such sum as he may with the approval of the Treasury determine.

SCHEDULE 14 Repeals and Revocations

Section 74(3).

I28Part I Repeals

Annotations:
Commencement Information
I28

Sch. 14 Pt. I partly in force; Sch. 14 Pt. I not in force at Royal Assent see s. 76(3); Sch. 14 Pt. I in force for certain purposes at 11.1.1999 by S.I. 1998/3166, art. 2, Sch.; Sch. 14 Pt. I in force for certain purposes at 1.4.1999 by S.I. 1999/505, art. 2, Sch. 2; Sch. 14 Pt. I in force for certain purposes at 10.11.1999 by S.I. 1999/2859, art. 2; Sch. 14 Pt. I (except the repeal of Restrictive Practices Court Act 1976) in force at 1.3.2000 by S.I. 2000/344, art. 2, Sch.

Chapter

Short title

Extent of repeal

1973 c. 41.

The Fair Trading Act 1973.

Section 4.

Section 10(2).

Section 45.

Section 54(5).

Section 78(3).

In section 81(1), in the words before paragraph (a), from “and the Commission” to “of this Act)”; in paragraph (b), “or the Commission, as the case may be” and “or of the Commission”; in subsection (2), “or the Commission” and “or of the Commission” and in subsection (3), from “and, in the case,” to “85 of this Act”, and “or the Commission, as the case may be,”.

In section 83, in subsection (1) “Subject to subsection (1A) below” and subsection (1A).

In section 135(1), in the words before paragraph (a) and in paragraph (b), “or the Commission”, and paragraph (a).

Schedule 3.

In Schedule 8, paragraph 3(1) and (2).

1976 c. 33.

The Restrictive Practices Court Act 1976.

The whole Act.

1976 c. 34.

The Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976.

The whole Act.

1976 c. 53.

The Resale Prices Act 1976.

The whole Act.

1976 c. 76.

The Energy Act 1976.

Section 5.

1977 c. 19.

The Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1977.

The whole Act.

1977 c. 37.

The Patents Act 1977.

Sections 44 and 45.

1979 c. 38.

The Estate Agents Act 1979.

In section 10(3), “or the Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976.”

1980 c. 21.

The Competition Act 1980.

Sections 2 to 10.

In section 11(8), paragraph (b) and the “and” immediately before it.

In section 13(1), from “but the giving” to the end.

In section 15, subsections (2)(b), (3) and (4).

Section 16(3).

In section 17, “8(1)” in subsections (1) and (3) to (5) and in subsection (2) “8(1) or”.

In section 19(3), paragraph (d).

In section 19(5)(a), “or in anything published under section 4(2)(a) above”.

Section 22.

Sections 25 to 30.

In section 31, subsection (2) and “10” in subsection (3).

Section 33(3) and (4).

1984 c. 12.

The Telecommunications Act 1984.

Section 14(2).

In section 16(5), the “or” immediately after paragraph (a).

In section 50(4), paragraph (c) and the “and” immediately after it.

In section 50(5), “or (3)”.

In section 50(7), “or the 1980 Act”.

In section 95(1), “or section 10(2)(a) of the 1980 Act”.

In section 95(2), paragraph (c) and the “or” immediately before it.

In section 95(3), “or the 1980 Act”.

In section 101(3), paragraphs (d) and (e).

1986 c. 31.

The Airports Act 1986.

Section 45(3).

In section 54(1), “or section 10(2)(a) of the 1980 Act”.

In section 54(3), paragraph (c) and the “or” immediately before it.

In section 54(4), “or the 1980 Act”.

In section 56(a)(ii), “or the 1980 Act”.

1986 c. 44.

The Gas Act 1986.

Section 25(2).

In section 27(1), “or section 10(2)(a) of the Competition Act 1980”.

In section 27(3)(a), from “or” to “competition reference”.

In section 27(6), “or the said Act of 1980”.

In section 28(5), the “or” immediately after paragraph (aa).

In section 36A(5), paragraph (d) and the “and” immediately before it.

In section 36A(6), “or (3)”.

In section 36A(8), “or under the 1980 Act”.

In section 36A(9), “or the 1980 Act”.

In section 42(3), paragraphs (e) and (f).

1986 c. 60.

The Financial Services Act 1986.

Section 126.

1987 c. 43.

The Consumer Protection Act 1987.

In section 38(3), paragraphs (e) and (f).

1987 c. 53.

The Channel Tunnel Act 1987.

In section 33(2), paragraph (c) and the “and” immediately before it.

In section 33(5), paragraphs (b) and (c).

1988 c. 54.

The Road Traffic (Consequential Provisions) Act 1988.

In Schedule 3, paragraph 19.

1989 c. 15.

The Water Act 1989.

In section 174(3), paragraphs (d) and (e).

1989 c. 29.

The Electricity Act 1989.

Section 13(2).

In section 15(1), paragraph (b) and the “or” immediately before it.

In section 15(2), paragraph (c) and the “or” immediately before it.

In section 15(3), “or the 1980 Act”.

In section 25(5), the “or” immediately after paragraph (b).

In section 43(4), paragraph (c) and the “and” immediately after it.

In section 43(5), “or (3)”.

In section 43(7), “or the 1980 Act”.

In section 57(3), paragraphs (d) and (e).

1989 c. 40.

The Companies Act 1989.

In Schedule 20, paragraphs 21 to 24.

1990 c. 42.

The Broadcasting Act 1990.

In section 193(2), paragraph (c) and the “and” immediately before it.

In section 193(4), “or the Competition Act 1980”.

1991 c. 56.

The Water Industry Act 1991.

In section 12(5), “or the 1980 Act”.

Section 15(2).

In section 17(1), paragraph (b) and the “or” immediately before it.

In section 17(2), paragraph (c) and the “or” immediately before it.

In section 17(4), “or the 1980 Act”.

In section 31(4), paragraph (c) and the “and” immediately before it.

In section 31(5), “or in subsection (3) above”.

In section 31(6), “or in subsection (3) above”.

In section 31(7), “or (3)”.

In section 31(9), “or the 1980 Act”.

In Part II of Schedule 15, the entries relating to the Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976 and the Resale Prices Act 1976.

1991 c. 57.

The Water Resources Act 1991.

In Part II of Schedule 24, the entries relating to the Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976 and the Resale Prices Act 1976.

1993 c. 21.

The Osteopaths Act 1993.

In section 33(4), paragraph (b) and the “or” immediately before it.

In section 33(5), “or section 10 of the Act of 1980”.

1993 c. 43.

The Railways Act 1993.

Section 14(2).

In section 16(1), paragraph (b) and the “or” immediately before it.

In section 16(2), paragraph (c) and the “or” immediately before it.

In section 16(5), “or the 1980 Act”.

In section 67(4), paragraph (c) and the “and” immediately after it.

In section 67(6)(a), “or (3)”.

In section 67(9), “or under the 1980 Act”.

Section 131.

In section 145(3), paragraphs (d) and (e).

1994 c. 17.

The Chiropractors Act 1994.

In section 33(4), paragraph (b) and the “or” immediately before it.

In section 33(5), “or section 10 of the Act of 1980”.

1994 c. 21.

The Coal Industry Act 1994.

In section 59(4), paragraphs (e) and (f).

1994 c. 40.

The Deregulation and Contracting Out Act 1994.

Sections 10 and 11.

In section 12, subsections (1) to (6).

In Schedule 4, paragraph 1.

In Schedule 11, in paragraph 4, sub-paragraphs (3) to (6).

1996 c. 55.

The Broadcasting Act 1996.

Section 77(2).

I29Part II Revocations

Annotations:
Commencement Information
I29

Sch. 14 Pt. II wholly in force; Sch. 14 Pt. II not in force at Royal Assent see s. 76(3); Sch. 14 Pt. II in force for certain purposes at 1.4.1999 by S.I. 1999/505, art. 2, Sch. 2; Sch. 14 Pt. II fully in force at 1.3.2000 by S.I. 2000/344, art. 2, Sch.

Reference

Title

Extent of revocation

S.I. 1981/1675 (N.I.26).

The Magistrates’ Courts (Northern Ireland) Order 1981.

In Schedule 6, paragraphs 42 and 43.

S.I. 1982/1080 (N.I.12).

The Agricultural Marketing (Northern Ireland) Order 1982.

In Schedule 8, the entry relating to paragraph 16(2) of Schedule 3 to the Fair Trading Act 1973 and in the entry relating to the Competition Act 1980, “and 15(3)”.

S.I. 1986/1035 (N.I.9).

The Companies Consolidation (Consequential Provisions)(Northern Ireland) Order 1986.

In Part II of Schedule 1, the entries relating to the Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976 and the Resale Prices Act 1976.

S.I. 1992/231 (N.I.1).

The Electricity (Northern Ireland) Order 1992.

Article 16(2).

In Article 18—

(a) in paragraph (1), sub-paragraph (b) and the “or” immediately before it;

(b) in paragraph (2), sub-paragraph (c) and the “or” immediately before it;

(c) in paragraph (3) “or the 1980 Act”.

In Article 28(5), the “or” immediately after sub-paragraph (b).

In Article 46—

(a) in paragraph (4), sub-paragraph (c) and the “and” immediately after it;

(b) in paragraph (5), “or (3)”;

(c) in paragraph (7), “or the 1980 Act”.

Article 61(3)(f) and (g).

In Schedule 12, paragraph 16.

S.I. 1994/426 (N.I.1).

The Airports (Northern Ireland) Order 1994.

Article 36(3).

In Article 45—

(a) in paragraph (1), “or section 10(2)(a) of the 1980 Act”;

(b) in paragraph (3), sub-paragraph (c) and the “or” immediately before it;

(c) in paragraph (4), “or the 1980 Act”.

In Article 47(a)(ii), “or the 1980 Act”.

In Schedule 9, paragraph 5.

S.I. 1996/275 (N.I.2).

The Gas (Northern Ireland) Order 1996.

Article 16(2).

In Article 18—

(a) in paragraph (1), sub-paragraph (b) and the “or” immediately before it;

(b) in paragraph (3), sub-paragraph (c) and the “or” immediately before it;

(c) in paragraph (5), “or the 1980 Act”.

In Article 19(5), the “or” immediately after sub-paragraph (b).

In Article 23—

(a) in paragraph (4), sub-paragraph (d) and the “and” immediately before it;

(b) in paragraph (5), “or (3)”;

(c) in paragraph (7), “or under the 1980 Act”;

(d) in paragraph (8), “or the 1980 Act”.

Article 44(4)(f) and (g).