The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003

Citation, commencement and interpretation U.K.

1.—(1) This Order may be cited as the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003 and shall come into force on 20th June 2003.

(2) In this Order—

“the Act” means the Enterprise Act 2002;

“a European intervention notice” means a notice given by the Secretary of State to the [F1 CMA] pursuant to section 67 of the Act;

[F2 “media public interest consideration” means any consideration which, at the time of the giving of the European intervention notice concerned, is specified in section 58(2A) to (2C) of the Act, or in the opinion of the Secretary of State, is concerned with broadcasting or newspapers and ought to be specified in section 58 of the Act.]

“public interest consideration” means a consideration which, at the time of the giving of the European intervention notice concerned, is specified in section 58 of the Act, or is not so specified but, in the opinion of the Secretary of State, ought to be so specified.

Textual Amendments

F1 Word in art. 1(2) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 3 (with arts. 20-23)

F2 Words in art. 1 inserted (29.12.2003) by The Enterprise Act 2002 and Media Mergers (Consequential Amendments) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/3180), reg. 1(1), Sch. para. 10(2)

Determination of a relevant merger situation U.K.

2.  For the purposes of deciding whether a relevant merger situation has been created or whether arrangements are in progress or in contemplation which, if carried into effect, will result in the creation of a relevant merger situation, for the purposes of section 68(2)(a) of the Act and this Order, sections 23 to 32 of the Act (read together with section 34 of the Act and any Order made pursuant to that section) shall apply, but subject to the modifications mentioned in Schedule 1.

European intervention notices under section 67 of the Act U.K.

3.—(1) A European intervention notice shall come into force when it is given and shall cease to be in force when the matter to which it relates is finally determined in accordance with paragraphs (2) and (3).

(2) A matter to which a European intervention notice relates is finally determined if—

(a) the time within which the [F3 CMA] [F4 or (if relevant) OFCOM] is to report to the Secretary of State under article 4 [F5 or (as the case may be) 4A] has expired and no such report has been made;

(b) the Secretary of State decides to accept an undertaking or group of undertakings under paragraph 3 of Schedule 2 instead of making a reference under article 5;

(c) the Secretary of State otherwise decides not to make a reference under article 5;

(d) the [F6 CMA] cancels such a reference under article 7(1) or article 11(1);

(e) the time within which the [F7 CMA] is to prepare a report under article 8 and give it to the Secretary of State has expired and no such report has been prepared and given to the Secretary of State;

(f) the time within which the Secretary of State is to make and publish a decision under article 12(2) has expired and no such decision has been made and published;

(g) the Secretary of State decides under paragraph (2) of article 12 otherwise than as mentioned in paragraph (6) of that article;

(h) the Secretary of State decides under paragraph (2) of article 12 as mentioned in paragraph (6) of that article but decides neither to accept an undertaking under paragraph 9 of Schedule 2 nor to make an order under paragraph 11 of that Schedule; or

(i) the Secretary of State decides under paragraph (2) of article 12 as mentioned in paragraph (6) of that article and accepts an undertaking under paragraph 9 of Schedule 2 or makes an order under paragraph 11 of that Schedule.

(3) The time when a matter to which a European intervention notice relates is finally determined is—

(a) in a case falling within paragraph (2)(a), (e) or (f), the expiry of the time concerned;

(b) in a case falling within paragraph (2)(b), the acceptance of the undertaking or group of undertakings concerned;

(c) in a case falling within paragraph (2)(c), (d) or (g), the making of the decision concerned;

(d) in a case falling within paragraph (2)(h), the making of the decision neither to accept an undertaking under paragraph 9 of Schedule 2 nor to make an order under paragraph 11 of that Schedule; and

(e) in a case falling within paragraph (2)(i), the acceptance of the undertakings concerned or (as the case may be) the making of the order concerned.

Textual Amendments

F3 Word in art. 3(2)(a) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 4(a) (with arts. 20-23)

F4 Words in art. 3(2)(a) inserted (29.12.2003) by The Enterprise Act 2002 and Media Mergers (Consequential Amendments) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/3180), reg. 1(1), Sch. para. 10(3)(a)

F5 Words in art. 3(2)(a) inserted (29.12.2003) by The Enterprise Act 2002 and Media Mergers (Consequential Amendments) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/3180), reg. 1(1), Sch. para. 10(3)(b)

F6 Word in art. 3(2)(d) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 4(b) (with arts. 20-23)

F7 Word in art. 3(2)(e) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 4(b) (with arts. 20-23)

Initial investigation and report by [F8 CMA] U.K.

4.—(1) Paragraph (2) applies where the Secretary of State has given a European intervention notice in relation to a relevant merger situation under section 67 of the Act.

(2) The [F9 CMA] shall, within such period as the Secretary of State may require, give a report to the Secretary of State in relation to the case.

(3) The report shall contain—

(a) advice from the [F10 CMA] on the considerations relevant to the making of a reference under section 22 or 33 of the Act which are also relevant to the Secretary of State’s decision as to whether to make a reference under article 5; and

(b) a summary of any representations about the case which have been received by the [F10 CMA] and which relate to any public interest consideration mentioned in the European intervention notice concerned [F11 (other than a media public interest consideration)] and which is or may be relevant to the Secretary of State’s decision as to whether to make a reference under article 5.

(4) The report shall include a decision as to whether the [F12 CMA] believes that it is, or may be, the case that a European relevant merger situation has been created or (as the case may be) arrangements are in progress or in contemplation which, if carried into effect, will result in the creation of a European relevant merger situation.

[F13 (4A) The report may, in particular, contain a summary of any representations about the case which have been received by the [F14 CMA] and which relate to any media public interest consideration mentioned in the European intervention notice concerned and which is or may be relevant to the Secretary of State’s decision as to whether to make a reference under article 5.]

(5) The report may, in particular, include advice and recommendations on any public interest consideration mentioned in the European intervention notice concerned and which is or may be relevant to the Secretary of State’s decision as to whether to make a reference under article 5.

(6) The [F15 CMA] shall carry out such investigations as it considers appropriate for the purpose of producing a report under this article.

Textual Amendments

F8 Word in art. 4 heading substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 5(b) (with arts. 20-23)

F9 Word in art. 4(2) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 5(a) (with arts. 20-23)

F10 Word in art. 4(3) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 5(a) (with arts. 20-23)

F11 Words in art. 4(3)(b) inserted (29.12.2003) by The Enterprise Act 2002 and Media Mergers (Consequential Amendments) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/3180), reg. 1(1), Sch. para. 10(4)(a)

F12 Word in art. 4(4) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 5(a) (with arts. 20-23)

F13 Art. 4(4A) inserted (29.12.2003) by The Enterprise Act 2002 and Media Mergers (Consequential Amendments) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/3180), reg. 1(1), Sch. para. 10(4)(b)

F14 Word in art. 4(4A) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 5(a) (with arts. 20-23)

F15 Word in art. 4(6) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 5(a) (with arts. 20-23)

[F16 Additional investigation and report by OFCOM: media mergers U.K.

4A.— (1) Paragraph (2) applies where—

(a) the Secretary of State has given a European intervention notice in relation to a relevant merger situation under section 67 of the Act; and

(b) the European intervention notice mentions any media public interest consideration.

(2) OFCOM shall, within such period as the Secretary of State may require, give a report to the Secretary of State on the effect of the consideration or considerations concerned on the case.

(3) The report shall contain—

(a) advice and recommendations on any media public interest consideration mentioned in the European intervention notice concerned and which is or may be relevant to the Secretary of State’s decision as to whether to make a reference under article 5; and

(b) a summary of any representations about the case which have been received by OFCOM and which relate to any such consideration.

(4) OFCOM shall carry out such investigations as they consider appropriate for the purposes of producing a report under this article.]

Textual Amendments

F16 Art. 4A inserted (29.12.2003) by The Enterprise Act 2002 and Media Mergers (Consequential Amendments) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/3180), reg. 1(1), Sch. para. 10(5)

Power of Secretary of State to refer the matter U.K.

5.—(1) Paragraphs (2) and (3) apply where the Secretary of State—

(a) has given a European intervention notice in relation to a relevant merger situation; and

(b) has received a report of the [F17 CMA] under article 4[F18 , and any report of OFCOM which is required by virtue of article 4A,] in relation to the matter.

(2) The Secretary of State may make a reference to [F19 the chair of the CMA for the constitution of a group under Schedule 4 to the Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013] if she believes that it is or may be the case that—

(a) a European relevant merger situation has been created;

(b) one or more than one public interest consideration mentioned in the European intervention notice is relevant to a consideration of the European relevant merger situation concerned; and

(c) taking account only of the relevant public interest consideration or considerations concerned, the creation of that situation operates or may be expected to operate against the public interest.

(3) The Secretary of State may make a reference to [F20 the chair of the CMA for the constitution of a group under Schedule 4 to the Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013] if she believes that it is or may be the case that—

(a) arrangements are in progress or in contemplation which, if carried into effect, will result in the creation of a European relevant merger situation;

(b) one or more than one public interest consideration mentioned in the European intervention notice is relevant to a consideration of the European relevant merger situation concerned; and

(c) taking account only of the relevant public interest consideration or considerations concerned, the creation of that situation operates or may be expected to operate against the public interest.

(4) No reference shall be made under this article if the making of the reference is prevented by F21 ... paragraph 4 of Schedule 2.

(5) The Secretary of State, in deciding whether to make a reference under this article, shall accept the decision of the [F22 CMA] included in its report under article 4 by virtue of paragraph (4) of that article.

(6) Where the decision to make a reference under article 5 is made at any time on or after the end of the period of 24 weeks beginning with the giving of the European intervention notice concerned, the Secretary of State shall, in deciding whether to make such a reference, disregard any public interest consideration which is mentioned in the European intervention notice but which has not been finalised before the end of that period.

(7) The Secretary of State may, if she believes that there is a realistic prospect of the public interest consideration mentioned in paragraph (6) being finalised within the period of 24 weeks beginning with the giving of the European intervention notice concerned, delay deciding whether to make the reference concerned until the public interest consideration is finalised or, if earlier, the period expires.

(8) A reference under this article shall, in particular, specify—

(a) the paragraph of this article under which it is made;

(b) the date on which it is made; and

(c) the public interest consideration or considerations mentioned in the European intervention notice concerned which the Secretary of State is not under a duty to disregard by virtue of paragraph (6) and which she believes are or may be relevant to a consideration of the relevant merger situation concerned.

Textual Amendments

F17 Word in art. 5(1)(b) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 6(a) (with arts. 20-23)

F18 Words in art. 5(1)(b) inserted (29.12.2003) by The Enterprise Act 2002 and Media Mergers (Consequential Amendments) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/3180), reg. 1(1), Sch. para. 10(6)(a)

F19 Words in art. 5(2) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 6(b) (with arts. 20-23)

F20 Words in art. 5(3) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 6(b) (with arts. 20-23)

F21 Words in art. 5(4) revoked (29.12.2003) by The Enterprise Act 2002 and Media Mergers (Consequential Amendments) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/3180), reg. 1(1), Sch. para. 10(6)(b)

F22 Word in art. 5(5) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 6(c) (with arts. 20-23)

[F23 Functions to be exercised by CMA groups U.K.

5A.   Where a reference is made to the chair of the CMA under article 5 for the constitution of a group under Schedule 4 to the Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013, the functions of the CMA under or by virtue of the following provisions in relation to the matter concerned are to be carried out on behalf of the CMA by the group so constituted—

(a) articles 6 to 11;

(b) article 14, so far as relating to anything done on behalf of the CMA by the group;

(c) where a reference is treated by virtue of article 7(4) as having been made under article 5(2), paragraph (ab) of section 23(9) of the Act as applied by article 2;

(d) sections 104 and 104A of the Act as applied by article 15;

(e) section 109 of the Act as applied by article 15, where the permitted purpose relates to a function that (by virtue of this article) is being or is to be carried out on behalf of the CMA by the group;

(f) sections 110 to 115 of the Act as applied by article 15, so far as relating to a notice given under section 109 (as so applied) on behalf of the CMA by the group;

(g) section 118(4) of the Act as applied by article 15;

(h) section 120(5)(b) of the Act as applied by article 15, so far as relating to a decision of the group.]

Textual Amendments

F23 Art. 5A inserted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 7 (with arts. 20-23)

Questions to be decided on references under article 5 U.K.

6.—(1) The [F24 CMA] shall, on a reference under article 5(2), decide whether a European relevant merger situation has been created.

(2) The [F24 CMA] shall, on a reference under article 5(3), decide whether arrangements are in progress or in contemplation which, if carried into effect, will result in the creation of a European relevant merger situation.

(3) If the [F24 CMA] decides that a European relevant merger situation has been created, or that arrangements are in progress or in contemplation which, if carried into effect, will result in the creation of a European relevant merger situation, it shall, on a reference under article 5, decide whether, taking account only of the admissible public interest consideration or considerations concerned, the creation of that situation operates or may be expected to operate against the public interest.

(4) The [F24 CMA] shall, if it has decided on a reference under article 5 that the creation of a European relevant merger situation operates or may be expected to operate against the public interest, decide the following additional questions—

(a) whether action should be taken by the Secretary of State under article 12 for the purpose of remedying, mitigating or preventing any of the effects adverse to the public interest which have resulted from, or may be expected to result from, the creation of the European relevant merger situation concerned;

(b) whether the [F24 CMA] should recommend the taking of other action by the Secretary of State or action by persons other than itself and the Secretary of State for the purpose of remedying, mitigating or preventing any of the effects adverse to the public interest which have resulted from, or may be expected to result from, the creation of the European relevant merger situation concerned; and

(c) in either case, if action should be taken, what action should be taken and what is to be remedied, mitigated or prevented.

(5) In this article “admissible public interest consideration” means any public interest consideration which is specified in the reference under article 5 and which the [F24 CMA] is not under a duty to disregard.

Textual Amendments

F24 Word in art. 6 substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 8 (with arts. 20-23)

Cancellation or variation of references under article 5 U.K.

7.—(1) The [F25 CMA] shall cancel a reference under article 5(3) if it considers that the proposal to make arrangements of the kind mentioned in the reference has been abandoned.

(2) In relation to the question whether a European relevant merger situation has been created or the question whether a European relevant merger situation will be created, a reference under article 5 may be framed so as to require the [F25 CMA] to exclude from consideration—

(a) subsection (1) of section 23 of the Act;

(b) subsection (2) of that section; or

(c) one of those subsections if the [F25 CMA] finds that the other is satisfied.

(3) In relation to the question whether [F26 for the purpose of section 23(2)(b), the share of supply test is or will be met], a reference under article 5 may be framed so as to require the [F25 CMA] to confine its investigation to the supply of goods or services in a part of the United Kingdom specified in the reference.

(4) The [F25 CMA] may, if it considers that doing so is justified by the facts (including events occurring on or after the making of the reference concerned), treat a reference made under paragraph (2) or (3) of article 5 as if it had been made under paragraph (3) or (as the case may be) (2) of that article; and, in such cases, references in this Order to references under those enactments shall, so far as may be necessary, be construed accordingly.

(5) Where by virtue of paragraph (4), the [F27 CMA] treats a reference made under paragraph (2) or (3) of article 5 as if it had been made under paragraph (3) or (as the case may be) (2) of that article, paragraphs F28 ... 2, 7 and 8 of Schedule 2, in particular, apply as if the reference had been made under paragraph (3) or (as the case may be) (2) of that article instead of under paragraph (2) or (3) of that article.

(6) Paragraph (7) applies in relation to [F29 any order made under paragraph 2 of Schedule 2] which is in force immediately before the [F30 CMA], by virtue of paragraph (4), treats a reference made under paragraph (2) or (3) of article 5 as if it had been made under paragraph (3) or (as the case may be) (2) of that article.

(7) The F31 ... order shall, so far as applicable, continue in force as if it were—

(a) in the case of an F31 ... order which relates to a reference under paragraph (2) of article 5, F32 ... made in relation to a reference made under paragraph (3) of that article; and

(b) in the case of an F31 ... order which relates to a reference made under paragraph (3) of that article, F32 ... made in relation to a reference made under paragraph (2) of that article;

and the F31 ... order concerned may be varied F33 ... or revoked accordingly.

(8) The Secretary of State may at any time vary a reference under article 5.

(9) The Secretary of State shall consult the [F34 CMA] before varying any such reference.

(10) Paragraph (9) shall not apply if the [F34 CMA] has requested the variation concerned.

(11) No variation by the Secretary of State under this article shall be capable of altering the public interest consideration or considerations specified in the reference or the period permitted by virtue of article 8 within which the report of the [F34 CMA] under that article is to be prepared and given to the Secretary of State.

Textual Amendments

F25 Word in art. 7(1)-(4) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 9(a) (with arts. 20-23)

F26 Words in art. 7(3) substituted (21.7.2020) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Turnover Test) (Amendment) Order 2020 (S.I. 2020/763), arts. 1(2), 3; S.I. 2020/748, art. 1(2)

F27 Word in art. 7(5) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 9(b)(i) (with arts. 20-23)

F28 Word in art. 7(5) omitted (1.4.2014) by virtue of The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 9(b)(ii) (with arts. 20-23)

F29 Words in art. 7(6) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 9(c)(i) (with arts. 20-23)

F30 Word in art. 7(6) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 9(c)(ii) (with arts. 20-23)

F31 Words in art. 7(7) omitted (1.4.2014) by virtue of The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 9(d)(i) (with arts. 20-23)

F32 Words in art. 7(7) omitted (1.4.2014) by virtue of The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 9(d)(ii) (with arts. 20-23)

F33 Words in art. 7(7) omitted (1.4.2014) by virtue of The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 9(d)(iii) (with arts. 20-23)

F34 Word in art. 7(9)-(11) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 9(e) (with arts. 20-23)

Investigations and reports on references under article 5 U.K.

8.—(1) The [F35 CMA] shall prepare a report on a reference under article 5 and give it to the Secretary of State within the period permitted by article 9.

(2) The report shall, in particular, contain—

(a) the decisions of the [F35 CMA] on the questions which it is required to answer by virtue of article 6;

(b) its reasons for its decisions; and

(c) such information as the [F35 CMA] considers appropriate for facilitating a proper understanding of those questions and of its reasons for its decisions.

[F36 (2A) Where the report relates to a reference under article 5 which has been made after a report of OFCOM under article 4A, the [F35 CMA] shall give a copy of its report (whether or not published) to OFCOM.]

(3) The [F35 CMA] shall carry out such investigations as it considers appropriate for the purpose of producing a report under this article.

Textual Amendments

F35 Word in art. 8 substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 10 (with arts. 20-23)

F36 Art. 8(2A) inserted (29.12.2003) by The Enterprise Act 2002 and Media Mergers (Consequential Amendments) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/3180), reg. 1(1), Sch. para. 10(7)

Time-limits and investigations and reports by [F37 CMA] U.K.

9.—(1) The [F38 CMA] shall prepare its report under article 8 and give it to the Secretary of State under that article within the period of 24 weeks beginning with the date of the reference concerned.

(2) The [F38 CMA] may extend, by no more than 8 weeks, the period within which a report under article 8 is to be prepared and given to the Secretary of State if it considers that there are special reasons why the report cannot be prepared and given to the Secretary of State within that period.

(3) The [F38 CMA] may extend the period within which a report under article 8 is prepared and given to the Secretary of State if it considers that a relevant person has failed (whether with or without a reasonable excuse) to comply with any requirement of a notice under section 109 of the Act.

(4) In paragraph (3) “relevant person” means—

(a) any person carrying on any of the enterprises concerned;

(b) any person who (whether alone or as a member of a group) owns or has control of any such person; or

(c) any officer, employee or agent of any person mentioned in sub-paragraph (a) or (b).

(5) For the purposes of paragraph (4) a person or group of persons able, directly or indirectly, to control or materially to influence the policy of a body of persons corporate or unincorporate, but without having a controlling interest in that body of persons, may be treated as having control of it.

(6) An extension under paragraph (2) or (3) shall come into force when published in accordance with article 14.

(7) An extension under paragraph (3) shall continue in force until—

(a) the person concerned provides the information or documents to the satisfaction of the [F39 CMA] or (as the case may be) appears as a witness in accordance with the requirements of the [F39 CMA]; or

(b) the [F39 CMA] publishes its decision to cancel the extension.

Textual Amendments

F37 Word in art. 9 heading substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 11(b) (with arts. 20-23)

F38 Word in art. 9(1)-(3) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 11(a) (with arts. 20-23)

F39 Word in art. 9(7) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 11(a) (with arts. 20-23)

Article 9: supplementary U.K.

10.—(1) A period extended under paragraph (2) of article 9 may also be extended under paragraph (3) of that article and a period extended under paragraph (3) of that article may also be extended under paragraph (2) of that article.

(2) No more than one extension is possible under article 9(2).

(3) Where a period within which a report under article 8 is prepared and given to the Secretary of State is extended or further extended under article 9(2) or (3), the period as extended or (as the case may be) further extended, shall, subject to paragraphs (4) and (5), be calculated by taking the period being extended and adding to it the period of the extension (whether or not those periods overlap in time).

(4) Paragraph (5) applies where—

(a) the period within which the report under article 8 is to be prepared and given to the Secretary of State is further extended;

(b) the further extension and at least one previous extension is made under article 9(3); and

(c) the same days or fractions of days are included in or comprise the further extension and are included in or comprise at least one such previous extension.

(5) In calculating the period of the further extension, any days or fractions of days of the kind mentioned in paragraph (4)(c) shall be disregarded.

(6) Any Regulations made pursuant to section 52(12) of the Act shall apply for the purposes of article 9(7).

Restrictions on action where public interest considerations not finalised U.K.

11.—(1) The [F40 CMA] shall cancel a reference under article 5 if—

(a) the European intervention notice concerned mentions a public interest consideration which was not finalised on the giving of that notice or public interest considerations which, at the time, were not finalised;

(b) no other public interest consideration is mentioned in the notice;

(c) at least 24 weeks has elapsed since the giving of the notice; and

(d) the public interest consideration mentioned in the notice has not been finalised within that period of 24 weeks or (as the case may be) none of the public interest considerations mentioned in the notice has been finalised within that period of 24 weeks.

(2) Where a reference to the [F40 CMA] under article 5 specifies a public interest consideration which has not been finalised before the making of the reference, the [F40 CMA] shall not give its report to the Secretary of State under article 8 in relation to that reference unless—

(a) the period of 24 weeks beginning with the giving of the European intervention notice has expired; or

(b) the public interest consideration has been finalised.

(3) The [F40 CMA] shall, in reporting on any of the questions mentioned in article 6(3) and (4), disregard any public interest consideration which was not finalised on the giving of the European intervention notice and has not been finalised within the period of 24 weeks beginning with the giving of the notice concerned.

(4) Paragraphs (1) to (3) are without prejudice to the power of the [F40 CMA] to carry out investigations in relation to any public interest consideration to which it might be able to have regard in its report.

Textual Amendments

F40 Word in art. 11 substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 12 (with arts. 20-23)

Decision and enforcement by Secretary of State U.K.

12.—(1) Paragraph (2) applies where the Secretary of State has received a report of the [F41 CMA] under article 8 in relation to a European relevant merger situation.

(2) The Secretary of State shall, in connection with a reference under article 5(2) or (3), decide the questions which the [F41 CMA] is required to decide by virtue of article 6(1) to (3).

(3) The Secretary of State shall publish her decision under paragraph (2) within a period of 30 days beginning with the receipt of the report of the [F41 CMA] under article 8.

(4) In making her decisions under paragraph (2), the Secretary of State shall disregard any public interest consideration not specified in the reference under article 5 and any public interest consideration disregarded by the [F41 CMA] for the purposes of its report.

(5) In making her decisions under paragraph (2), the Secretary of State shall accept the decisions of the report of the [F41 CMA] under article 8 as to whether a European relevant merger situation has been created or whether arrangements are in progress or in contemplation which, if carried into effect, will result in the creation of a European relevant merger situation.

(6) Paragraph (7) applies where the Secretary of State has decided under paragraph (2) that—

(a) a European relevant merger situation has been created or arrangements are in progress or in contemplation which, if carried into effect, will result in the creation of a European relevant merger situation;

(b) at least one public interest consideration which is mentioned in the European intervention notice concerned is relevant to a consideration of the European relevant merger situation concerned; and

(c) taking account only of the relevant public interest consideration or considerations concerned, the creation of that situation operates or may be expected to operate against the public interest;

and has so decided, and published her decision, within the period required by paragraph (3).

(7) The Secretary of State may take such action under paragraph 9 or 11 of Schedule 2 as she considers reasonable and practicable to remedy, mitigate or prevent any of the effects adverse to the public interest which have resulted from, or may be expected to result from, the creation of the European relevant merger situation concerned.

(8) In making a decision under paragraph (7), the Secretary of State shall, in particular, have regard to the report of the [F42 CMA] under article 8.

(9) In determining for the purpose of paragraph (3) the period of 30 days no account shall be taken of—

(a) Saturday, Sunday, Good Friday and Christmas Day; and

(b) any day which is a bank holiday in England and Wales.

Textual Amendments

F41 Word in art. 12(1)-(5) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 13 (with arts. 20-23)

F42 Word in art. 12(8) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 13 (with arts. 20-23)

Enforcement action in European intervention notice cases U.K.

13.—(1) Schedule 2 (which provides for enforcement action in European intervention notice cases) shall have effect.

(2) The [F43 CMA] may advise the Secretary of State in relation to the taking by her of enforcement action under Schedule 2.

Textual Amendments

F43 Word in art. 13(2) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 14 (with arts. 20-23)

Publicity requirements U.K.

14.—(1) The [F44 CMA] shall publish—

(a) any cancellation made by it under article 7(1) of a reference under article 5;

(b) any extension by it under article 9 of the period within which a report under article 8 is to be prepared and published;

(c) any decision made by it under article 9(7)(b) to cancel such an extension; and

(d) any decision made by it under article 7(4) to treat a reference made under paragraph (2) or (3) of article 5 as if it had been made under paragraph (3) or (as the case may be) (2) of that article.

(2) The Secretary of State shall publish—

(a) any European intervention notice given by her;

(b) any report of the [F45 CMA] under article 4 which has been received by her;

[F46 (ba) any report of OFCOM under article 4A which has been received by her;]

(c) any reference made by her under article 5 or any decision made by her not to make a reference;

(d) any variation by her under article 7 of a reference under article 5;

(e) any report of the [F47 CMA] under article 8 which has been received by her;

(f) any decision made by her neither to accept an undertaking under paragraph 9 of Schedule 2 nor to make an order under paragraph 11 of that Schedule;

F48 (g) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F48 (h) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(i) any decision made by her as mentioned in paragraph 6(6)(b) of Schedule 2; and

(j) any decision to dispense with the requirements of Schedule 10 of the Act.

(3) Where any person is under a duty by virtue of paragraphs (1) or (2) to publish the result of any action taken by that person or any decision made by that person, the person concerned shall, subject to paragraph (4), also publish that person’s reasons for the action concerned or (as the case may be) the decision concerned.

(4) Such reasons need not, if it is not reasonably practicable to do so, be published at the same time as the result of the action concerned or (as the case may be) as the decision concerned.

(5) The Secretary of State shall publish her reasons for any decision made by her under article 12(2).

(6) Such reasons may be published after the publication of the decision concerned if it is not reasonably practicable to publish them at the same time as the publication of the decision.

(7) The Secretary of State shall publish—

(a) the report of the [F49 CMA] under article 4[F50 , and any report of OFCOM under article 4A,] in relation to a matter no later than publication of her decision as to whether to make a reference under article 5 in relation to that matter; and

(b) the report of the [F51 CMA] under article 8 in relation to a matter no later than publication of her decision under article 12(2) in relation to that matter.

(8) Where the Secretary of State has decided under article 12(7) to accept an undertaking under paragraph 9 of Schedule 2 or to make an order under paragraph 11 of that Schedule, she shall (after the acceptance of the undertaking or (as the case may be) the making of the order) lay details of her decision and her reasons for it, and the [F52 CMA's] report under article 8, before each House of Parliament.

Textual Amendments

F44 Word in art. 14(1) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 15(a) (with arts. 20-23)

F45 Word in art. 14(2)(b) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 15(b)(i) (with arts. 20-23)

F46 Art. 14(2)(ba) inserted (29.12.2003) by The Enterprise Act 2002 and Media Mergers (Consequential Amendments) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/3180), reg. 1(1), Sch. para. 10(8)(a)

F47 Word in art. 14(2)(e) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 15(b)(ii) (with arts. 20-23)

F48 Art. 14(2)(g)(h) omitted (1.4.2014) by virtue of The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 15(b)(iii) (with arts. 20-23)

F49 Word in art. 14(7)(a) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 15(c)(i) (with arts. 20-23)

F50 Words in art. 14(7)(a) inserted (29.12.2003) by The Enterprise Act 2002 and Media Mergers (Consequential Amendments) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/3180), reg. 1(1), Sch. para. 10(8)(b)

F51 Word in art. 14(7)(b) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 15(c)(ii) (with arts. 20-23)

F52 Word in art. 14(8) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/891), arts. 1, 15(d) (with arts. 20-23)

Other provisions of the Act applicable to this Order U.K.

15.  The other provisions of the Act mentioned in Schedule 3 shall apply for the purposes of this Order with the modifications mentioned in that Schedule.

Consequential amendments U.K.

16.  Schedule 4 (which contains consequential amendments) shall have effect.

Gerry Sutcliffe,

Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Employment Relations, Competition and Consumers,

Department of Trade and Industry