UK Competition Regulator to Accelerate Decisions in Growth-Focused Overhaul

The CMA announces reforms to streamline processes as the government pushes for a less risk-averse regulatory environment to boost economic growth.

The UK government has directed the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) to adopt a faster, less risk-averse approach to regulatory decisions in order to stimulate economic growth.
The CMA plans to reduce investigation timelines, including cutting the pre-notification phase from 65 to 40 working days and straightforward Phase 1 investigations from 35 to 25 working days.
Jonathan Reynolds, the Business Secretary, has launched a consultation to reshape the CMA’s priorities, emphasizing agility, proportionality, and a focus on reducing burdens on businesses.
The CMA’s leadership has undergone significant changes, with the government appointing Doug Gurr, a former Amazon UK executive, as interim chair following the resignation of Marcus Bokkerink.
Critics have raised concerns about the potential impact on consumer protections, while the government argues that the reforms will balance growth with safeguarding consumer interests.