In section 103 of the 2002 Act (duty of expedition in relation to references), in subsection (1), for the words from the beginning to “the OFT” substitute “ In making any decision for the purposes of its functions of making and determining references under this Part, the CMA ”.

Schedule 8 (which makes provision about time-limits in relation to the mergers reference regime under Part 3 of the 2002 Act) has effect.