Citation, commencement and interpretation

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 OFT pursuant to section 67 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.

Determination of a relevant merger situation

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

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 OFT is to report to the Secretary of State under article 4 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 Commission cancels such a reference under article 7(1) or article 11(1);

(e)the time within which the Commission 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.

Initial investigation and report by OFT

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 OFT 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 OFT 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 OFT and which relate to 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.

(4) The report shall include a decision as to whether the OFT 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.

(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 OFT shall carry out such investigations as it considers appropriate for the purpose of producing a report under this article.

Power of Secretary of State to refer the matter

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 OFT under article 4 in relation to the matter.

(2) The Secretary of State may make a reference to the Commission 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 the Commission 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 section 69(1) of the Act or 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 OFT 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.

Questions to be decided on references under article 5

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

(2) The Commission 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 Commission 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 Commission 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 Commission 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 Commission is not under a duty to disregard.

Cancellation or variation of references under article 5

7.—(1) The Commission 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 Commission 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 Commission finds that the other is satisfied.

(3) In relation to the question whether any such result as is mentioned in section 23(2)(b) of the Act has arisen or the question whether any such result will arise, a reference under article 5 may be framed so as to require the Commission to confine its investigation to the supply of goods or services in a part of the United Kingdom specified in the reference.

(4) The Commission 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 Commission 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 1, 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 any undertaking accepted under paragraph 1 of Schedule 2, or any order made under paragraph 2 of that Schedule, which is in force immediately before the Commission, 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 undertaking or order shall, so far as applicable, continue in force as if it were—

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

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

and the undertaking or order concerned may be varied, superseded, released 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 Commission before varying any such reference.

(10) Paragraph (9) shall not apply if the Commission 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 Commission under that article is to be prepared and given to the Secretary of State.

Investigations and reports on references under article 5

8.—(1) The Commission 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 Commission 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 Commission considers appropriate for facilitating a proper understanding of those questions and of its reasons for its decisions.

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

Time-limits and investigations and reports by Commission

9.—(1) The Commission 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 Commission 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 Commission 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 Commission or (as the case may be) appears as a witness in accordance with the requirements of the Commission; or

(b)the Commission publishes its decision to cancel the extension.

Article 9: supplementary

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

11.—(1) The Commission 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 Commission under article 5 specifies a public interest consideration which has not been finalised before the making of the reference, the Commission 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 Commission 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 Commission to carry out investigations in relation to any public interest consideration to which it might be able to have regard in its report.

Decision and enforcement by Secretary of State

12.—(1) Paragraph (2) applies where the Secretary of State has received a report of the Commission 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 Commission 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 Commission 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 Commission 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 Commission 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 Commission 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.

Enforcement action in European intervention notice cases

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

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

Publicity requirements

14.—(1) The Commission 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 OFT under article 4 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 Commission 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;

(g)any enforcement undertaking accepted by her under paragraph 1 of Schedule 2;

(h)any variation or release of such an undertaking;

(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 OFT under article 4 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 Commission 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 Commission’s report under article 8, before each House of Parliament.

Other provisions of the Act applicable to this Order

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

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

Article 2

SCHEDULE 1MODIFICATIONS TO SECTIONS 23 TO 32 OF THE ACT

Sections 23 to 32 of the Act shall apply as if—

(a)references in those sections to “the decision-making authority” were references to the OFT, the Commission or (as the case may be) the Secretary of State;

(b)in section 23(1) and (2) the words “For the purposes of this Part,” were omitted;

(c)in section 23(9) the words “For the purposes of this Chapter,” were omitted;

(d)for section 23(9)(a) there were substituted—

“(a)in relation to the giving of a European intervention notice, the time when the notice is given;

(aa)in relation to the making of a report by the OFT under article 4 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003, the time of the making of the report;

(ab)in the case of a reference which is treated as having been made under article 5(2) of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003 by virtue of article 7(4) of that Order, such time as the Commission may determine; and”;

(e)the references to the OFT in section 24(2)(a) and (b) included references to the Secretary of State;

(f)the references to the OFT in sections 25(1) to (3), (6) and (8) and 31 included references to the Secretary of State;

(g)the references to the OFT in section 25(4) and (5) were references to the Secretary of State;

(h)the reference in section 25(4) to section 73 were a reference to paragraph 3 of Schedule 2 to this Order;

(i)after section 25(5) of the Act there were inserted—

“(5A) The Secretary of State may by notice to the persons carrying on the enterprises which have or may be ceased to be distinct enterprises extend the four month period mentioned in section 24(1)(a) or (2)(b) if, by virtue of article 5(7) of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003 or paragraph 3(5) of Schedule 2 to that Order, he decides to delay a decision as to whether to make a reference under article 5 of that Order.

(5B) An extension under subsection (5A) shall be for the period of the delay.”;

(j)in section 25(10)(b) after word “(4)” there were inserted “, (5A)”;

(k)the reference in section 25(12) to one extension were a reference to one extension by the OFT and one extension by the Secretary of State;

(l)the powers to extend time-limits under section 25 and the power to request information under section 31(1) were not exercisable by the OFT or the Secretary of State before the giving of a European intervention notice;

(m)in section 26(1) the words “For the purposes of this Part” were omitted;

(n)in section 28(2) the words from “For the purposes” to “121(4)(c)(ii))” were omitted;

(o)in subsection (1) of section 31 for the words “section 22” there were substituted “article 5(2) of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003” and, in the application of that subsection to the OFT, for the word “deciding” there were substituted “enabling the Secretary of State to decide”;

(p)in the case of the giving of European intervention notices, the references in sections 23 to 29 to the making of a reference or a reference were, so far as necessary, references to the giving of a European intervention notice or a European intervention notice; and

(q)the references to the OFT in section 32(2)(a) to (c) and (3) were construed in accordance with the above modifications.

Article 13

SCHEDULE 2ENFORCEMENT ACTION IN EUROPEAN INTERVENTION NOTICE CASES

Pre-emptive undertakings and orders

1.—(1) Sub-paragraph (2) applies where a European intervention notice is in force.

(2) The Secretary of State may, for the purposes of preventing pre-emptive action, accept from such of the parties concerned as she considers appropriate undertakings to take such action as she considers appropriate.

(3) An undertaking under this paragraph—

(a)shall come into force when accepted;

(b)may be varied or superseded by another undertaking; and

(c)may be released by the Secretary of State.

(4) An undertaking which is in force under this paragraph in relation to a reference or possible reference under article 5 shall cease to be in force if an order under paragraph 2 or an undertaking under paragraph 3 comes into force in relation to that reference.

(5) An undertaking under this paragraph shall, if it has not previously ceased to be in force, cease to be in force when the European intervention notice concerned ceases to be in force.

(6) No undertaking shall be accepted by the Secretary of State under this paragraph before the making of a reference under article 5 unless the undertaking relates to a European relevant merger situation which has been, or may have been, created.

(7) The Secretary of State shall, as soon as reasonably practicable, consider any representations received by her in relation to varying or releasing an undertaking under this paragraph.

(8) In this paragraph and paragraph 2 “pre-emptive action” means action which might prejudice the reference or possible reference concerned under article 5 or impede the taking of any action under this Order which may be justified by the Secretary of State’s decisions on the reference.

2.—(1) Sub-paragraph (2) applies where a European intervention notice is in force.

(2) The Secretary of State may by order, for the purpose of preventing pre-emptive action—

(a)prohibit or restrict the doing of things which the Secretary of State considers would constitute pre-emptive action;

(b)impose on any person concerned obligations as to the carrying on of any activities or the safeguarding of any assets;

(c)provide for the carrying on of any activities or the safeguarding of any assets either by the appointment of a person to conduct or supervise the conduct of any activities (on such terms and with such powers as may be specified or described in the order) or in any other manner;

(d)do anything which may be done by virtue of paragraph 19 of Schedule 8 to the Act.

(3) An order under this paragraph—

(a)shall come into force at such time as is determined by or under the order; and

(b)may be varied or revoked by another order.

(4) An order which is in force under this paragraph in relation to a reference or possible reference under article 5 shall cease to be in force if an undertaking under paragraph 1 or 3 comes into force in relation to that reference.

(5) An order under this paragraph shall, if it has not previously ceased to be in force, cease to be in force when the European intervention notice concerned ceases to be in force.

(6) No order shall be made by the Secretary of State under this paragraph before the making of a reference under article 5 unless the order relates to a European relevant merger situation which has been, or may have been, created.

(7) The Secretary of State shall, as soon as reasonably practicable, consider any representations received by her in relation to varying or revoking an order under this paragraph.

Undertakings in lieu of reference under article 5

3.—(1) Sub-paragraph (2) applies if the Secretary of State has power to make a reference to the Commission under article 5 and otherwise intends to make such a reference.

(2) The Secretary of State may, instead of making such a reference and for the purpose of remedying, mitigating or preventing any of the effects adverse to the public interest which have or may have resulted, or which may be expected to result, from the creation of the European relevant merger situation concerned accept from such of the parties concerned as she considers appropriate undertakings to take such action as she considers appropriate.

(3) In proceeding under sub-paragraph (2), the Secretary of State shall, in particular, accept the decisions of the OFT included in its report under article 4 so far as they relate to the matters mentioned in paragraphs (3)(a) and (4) of that article.

(4) No undertaking shall be accepted by the Secretary of State under this paragraph in connection with a possible reference under article 5 if a public interest consideration mentioned in the European intervention notice concerned has not been finalised and the period of 24 weeks beginning with the giving of that notice has not expired.

(5) The Secretary of State may delay making a decision as to whether to accept any such undertaking (and any related decision as to whether to make a reference under article 5) if she considers that there is a realistic prospect of the public interest consideration being finalised within the period of 24 weeks beginning with the giving of the European intervention notice concerned.

(6) A delay under sub-paragraph (5) shall not extend beyond—

(a)the time when the public interest consideration is finalised; or

(b)if earlier, the expiry of the period of 24 weeks mentioned in that sub-paragraph.

(7) An undertaking under this paragraph—

(a)shall come into force when accepted;

(b)may be varied or superseded by another undertaking; or

(c)may be released by the Secretary of State.

(8) An undertaking under this paragraph which is in force in relation to a European relevant merger situation shall cease to be in force if an order comes into force under paragraph 5 or 6 in relation to that undertaking.

(9) The Secretary of State shall, as soon as reasonably practicable, consider any representations received by her in relation to varying or releasing an undertaking under this paragraph.

4.—(1) The Secretary of State shall not make a reference under article 5 in relation to the creation of a European relevant merger situation if—

(a)the Secretary of State has accepted an undertaking or group of undertakings under paragraph 3; and

(b)the European relevant merger situation is the situation by reference to which the undertaking or group of undertakings was accepted.

(2) Sub-paragraph (1) does not prevent the making of a reference if material facts about relevant arrangements or transactions, or relevant proposed arrangements or transactions, were not notified (whether in writing or otherwise) to the Secretary of State or the OFT or made public before any undertaking concerned was accepted.

(3) For the purposes of sub-paragraph (2) arrangements or transactions, or proposed arrangements or transactions, are relevant if they are the ones in consequence of which the enterprises concerned ceased or may have ceased, or may cease, to be distinct enterprises.

(4) In sub-paragraph (2) “made public” means so publicised as to be generally known or readily ascertainable.

5.—(1) Sub-paragraph (2) applies where the Secretary of State considers that—

(a)an undertaking accepted by her under paragraph 3 has not been, is not being or will not be fulfilled; or

(b)in relation to an undertaking accepted by her under that paragraph, information which was false or misleading in a material respect was given to her or the OFT by the person giving the undertaking before she decided to accept the undertaking.

(2) The Secretary of State may, for any of the purposes mentioned in paragraph 3(2), make an order under this paragraph.

(3) Sub-paragraph (3) of paragraph 3 shall apply for the purposes of sub-paragraph (2) above as it applies for the purposes of sub-paragraph (2) of that paragraph.

(4) An order under this paragraph may contain—

(a)anything permitted by Schedule 8 to the Act; and

(b)such supplementary, consequential or incidental provision as the Secretary of State considers appropriate.

(5) An order under this paragraph—

(a)shall come into force at such time as is determined by or under the order; and

(b)may contain provision which is different from the provision contained in the undertaking concerned.

(6) No order shall be varied or revoked under this paragraph unless the OFT advises that such a variation or revocation is appropriate by reason of a change of circumstances.

6.—(1) Sub-paragraph (2) applies where—

(a)the Secretary of State has the power to make an order under paragraph 5 in relation to a particular undertaking and intends to make such an order; or

(b)the Secretary of State has the power to make an order under paragraph 10 in relation to a particular undertaking and intends to make such an order.

(2) The Secretary of State may, for the purpose of preventing any action which might prejudice the making of that order, make an order under this paragraph.

(3) No order shall be made under sub-paragraph (2) unless the Secretary of State has reasonable grounds for suspecting that it is or may be the case that action which might prejudice the making of the order under paragraph 5 or (as the case may be) 10 is in progress or in contemplation.

(4) An order under sub-paragraph (2) may—

(a)prohibit or restrict the doing of things which the Secretary of State considers would prejudice the making of the order under paragraph 5 or 10;

(b)impose on any person concerned obligations as to the carrying on of any activities or the safeguarding of any assets;

(c)provide for the carrying on of any activities or the safeguarding of any assets either by the appointment of a person to conduct or supervise the conduct of any activities (on such terms and with such powers as may be specified or described in the order) or in any other manner;

(d)do anything which may be done by virtue of paragraph 19 of Schedule 8 to the Act.

(5) An order under this paragraph shall come into force at such time as is determined by or under the order.

(6) An order under this paragraph shall, if it has not previously ceased to be in force, cease to be in force on—

(a)the coming into force of an order under paragraph 5 or (as the case may be) 10 in relation to the undertaking concerned; or

(b)the making of the decision not to proceed with such an order.

(7) The Secretary of State shall, as soon as reasonably practicable, consider any representations received by her in relation to varying or revoking an order under this paragraph.

Statutory restrictions following reference under article 5

7.—(1) Sub-paragraphs (2) and (3) apply where—

(a)a reference has been made under article 5 but not finally determined; and

(b)no undertakings under paragraph 1 are in force in relation to the European relevant merger situation concerned and no orders under paragraph 2 are in force in relation to that situation.

(2) No relevant person shall, without the consent of the Secretary of State—

(a)complete any outstanding matters in connection with any arrangements which have resulted in the enterprises concerned ceasing to be distinct enterprises;

(b)make any further arrangements in consequence of that result (other than arrangements which reverse that result); or

(c)transfer the ownership or control of any enterprises to which the reference relates.

(3) No relevant person shall, without the consent of the Secretary of State, assist in any of the activities mentioned in paragraphs (a) to (c) of sub-paragraph (2).

(4) The prohibitions in sub-paragraphs (2) and (3) do not apply in relation to anything which the person concerned is required to do by virtue of any enactment.

(5) The consent of the Secretary of State under sub-paragraph (2) or (3)—

(a)may be general or specific;

(b)may be revoked by the Secretary of State; and

(c)shall be published in such manner as the Secretary of State considers appropriate for bringing it to the attention of any person entitled to the benefit of it.

(6) Paragraph (c) of sub-paragraph (5) shall not apply if the Secretary of State considers that publication is not necessary for the purposes mentioned in that paragraph.

(7) Sub-paragraphs (2) and (3) shall apply to a person’s conduct outside the United Kingdom if (and only if) he is—

(a)a United Kingdom national;

(b)a body incorporated under the law of the United Kingdom or of any part of the United Kingdom; or

(c)a person carrying on business in the United Kingdom.

(8) For the purpose of this paragraph a reference under article 5 is finally determined if—

(a)the time within which the Commission is to prepare a report under article 8 in relation to the reference and give it to the Secretary of State has expired and no such report has been so prepared and given;

(b)the Commission decides to cancel the reference under article 11(1);

(c)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;

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

(e)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 this Schedule nor to make an order under paragraph 11 of this Schedule; or

(f)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 this Schedule or makes an order under paragraph 11 of this Schedule.

(9) For the purposes of this paragraph the time when a reference under article 5 is finally determined is—

(a)in a case falling within sub-paragraph (8)(a) or (c), the expiry of the time concerned;

(b)in a case falling within sub-paragraph (8)(b) or (d), the making of the decision concerned;

(c)in a case falling within sub-paragraph (8)(e), the making of the decision neither to accept an undertaking under paragraph 9 of this Schedule nor to make an order under paragraph 11 of this Schedule; and

(d)in a case falling within sub-paragraph (8)(f), the acceptance of the undertaking concerned or (as the case may be) the making of the order concerned.

(10) In this paragraph “relevant person” means—

(a)any person who carries on any enterprise to which the reference relates or who has control of any such enterprise;

(b)any subsidiary of any person falling within paragraph (a); or

(c)any person associated with any person falling within paragraph (a) or any subsidiary of any person so associated.

8.—(1) Sub-paragraph (2) applies where—

(a)a reference has been made under article 5, and

(b)no undertakings under paragraph 1 are in force in relation to the European relevant merger situation concerned and no orders under paragraph 2 are in force in relation to that situation.

(2) No relevant person shall, without the consent of the Secretary of State, directly or indirectly acquire during the relevant period an interest in shares in a company if any enterprise to which the reference relates is carried on by or under the control of that company.

(3) The consent of the Secretary of State under sub-paragraph (2)—

(a)may be general or specific;

(b)may be revoked by the Secretary of State; and

(c)shall be published in such manner as the Secretary of State considers appropriate for bringing it to the attention of any person entitled to the benefit of it.

(4) Paragraph (c) of sub-paragraph (3) shall not apply if the Secretary of State considers that publication is not necessary for the purpose mentioned in that paragraph.

(5) Sub-paragraph (2) shall apply to a person’s conduct outside the United Kingdom if (and only if) he is—

(a)a United Kingdom national;

(b)a body incorporated under the law of the United Kingdom or of any part of the United Kingdom; or

(c)a person carrying on business in the United Kingdom.

(6) In this paragraph—

“company” includes any body corporate;

“relevant period” means the period beginning with the publication of the decision of the Secretary of State to make the reference concerned and ending when the reference is finally determined;

“relevant person” means—

“share” means share in the capital of a company, and includes stock.

(7) For the purposes of the definition of “relevant period” in sub-paragraph (6), a reference under article 5 is finally determined if—

(a)the Commission cancels the reference under article 7(1) or article 11(1);

(b)the time within which the Commission is to prepare a report under article 8 in relation to the reference and give it to the Secretary of State has expired and no such report has been so prepared and given;

(c)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;

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

(e)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 this Schedule nor to make an order under paragraph 11 of this Schedule; or

(f)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 this Schedule or makes an order under paragraph 11 of this Schedule.

(8) For the purposes of the definition of “relevant period” in sub-paragraph (6) above, the time when a reference under article 5 is finally determined is—

(a)in a case falling within sub-paragraph (7)(a) or (d), the making of the decision concerned;

(b)in a case falling within sub-paragraph (7)(b) or (c), the expiry of the time concerned;

(c)in a case falling within sub-paragraph (7)(e), the making of the decision neither to accept an undertaking under paragraph 9 of this Schedule nor to make an order under paragraph 11 of this Schedule; and

(d)in a case falling within sub-paragraph (7)(f) the acceptance of the undertaking concerned or (as the case may be) the making of the order concerned.

(9) Section 79 of the Act shall apply for the purposes of paragraph 7 and this paragraph in relation to a reference under article 5 as it applies for the purposes of sections 77 and 78 in relation to a reference under section 22 or 33 of the Act.

(10) In its application by virtue of sub-paragraph (9) section 79 shall have effect as if—

(a)subsections (1) and (2) were omitted; and

(b)for the reference in subsection (4) to the OFT there were substituted a reference to the Secretary of State.

Final undertakings and orders

9.—(1) The Secretary of State may, in accordance with article 12(6) to (8) accept, from such persons as she considers appropriate, undertakings to take action specified or described in the undertakings.

(2) An undertaking under this paragraph—

(a)shall come into force when accepted;

(b)may be varied or superseded by another undertaking; and

(c)may be released by the Secretary of State.

(3) An undertaking which is in force under this paragraph in relation to a reference under article 5 shall cease to be in force if an order under paragraph 6(1)(b) or 10 comes into force in relation to the subject-matter of the undertaking.

(4) No undertaking shall be accepted under this paragraph in relation to a reference under article 5 if an order has been made under—

(a)paragraph 6(1)(b) or 10 in relation to the subject-matter of the undertaking; or

(b)paragraph 11 in relation to that reference.

(5) The Secretary of State shall, as soon as reasonably practicable, consider any representations received by her in relation to varying or releasing an undertaking under this paragraph.

10.—(1) Sub-paragraph (2) applies where the Secretary of State considers that—

(a)an undertaking accepted by her under paragraph 9 has not been, is not being or will not be fulfilled; or

(b)in relation to an undertaking accepted by her under that paragraph, information which was false or misleading in a material respect was given to her or the OFT by the person giving the undertaking before she decided to accept the undertaking.

(2) The Secretary of State may, for any purpose mentioned in article 12(7), make an order under this paragraph.

(3) Paragraph (8) of article 12 shall apply for the purpose of sub-paragraph (2) above as it applies for the purposes of article 12(7).

(4) An order under this paragraph may contain—

(a)anything permitted by Schedule 8 to the Act; and

(b)such supplementary, consequential or incidental provision as the Secretary of State considers appropriate.

(5) An order under this paragraph—

(a)shall come into force at such time as is determined by or under the order; and

(b)may contain provision which is different from the provision contained in the undertaking concerned.

(6) No order shall be varied or revoked under this paragraph unless the OFT advises that such a variation or revocation is appropriate by reason of a change of circumstances.

11.—(1) The Secretary of State may, in accordance with article 12(7), make an order under this paragraph.

(2) An order under this paragraph may contain—

(a)anything permitted by Schedule 8 to the Act; and

(b)such supplementary, consequential or incidental provision as the Secretary of State considers appropriate.

(3) An order under this paragraph shall come into force at such time as is determined by or under the order.

(4) No order shall be made under this paragraph in relation to a reference under article 5 if an undertaking has been accepted under paragraph 9 in relation to that reference.

(5) No order shall be varied or revoked under this paragraph unless the OFT advises that such a variation or revocation is appropriate by reason of a change of circumstances.

Article 15

SCHEDULE 3OTHER PROVISIONS OF THE ACT APPLICABLE TO THE ORDER

1.—(1) The following sections of Part 3 of the Act shall apply, with the modifications mentioned in sub-paragraphs (2) to (27) below, for the purposes of this Order—

(a)section 69 (newspaper mergers);

(b)section 86 (enforcement orders: general provisions);

(c)section 87 (delegated power of directions);

(d)section 88 (contents of certain enforcement orders);

(e)section 89 (subject-matter of undertakings);

(f)section 91 (register of undertakings and orders);

(g)section 92 (duty of OFT to monitor undertakings and orders);

(h)section 93 (further role of OFT in relation to undertakings and orders);

(i)section 94 (rights to enforce undertakings and orders);

(j)section 95 (rights to enforce statutory restrictions);

(k)section 103 (duty of expedition in relation to references);

(l)section 104 (certain duties of relevant authorities to consult);

(m)section 105 (general information duties of OFT and Commission);

(n)section 108 (defamation);

(o)section 109 (attendance of witnesses and production of documents etc.);

(p)section 110 (enforcement of powers under section 109: general);

(q)section 111 (penalties);

(r)section 112 (penalties: main procedural requirements);

(s)section 113 (payments and interest by instalments);

(t)section 114 (appeals in relation to penalties);

(u)section 115 (recovery of penalties);

(v)section 116 (statement of policy);

(w)section 117 (false or misleading information);

(x)section 118 (excisions from reports);

(y)section 119 (minority reports of Commission);

(z)section 120 (review of decisions under Part 3);

(aa)section 124 (orders and regulations under Part 3);

(bb)section 125 (offences by bodies corporate);

(cc)section 126 (service of documents);

(dd)section 127 (associated persons);

(ee)section 128 (supply of services and market for services etc.); and

(ff)section 129 (other interpretation provisions).

(2) Section 69 shall apply as if in subsection (1) for the words “section 22, 33, 45 or 62” there were substituted “article 5 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”.

(3) Section 86 shall apply as if—

(a)subsection (5) were omitted; and

(b)in subsection (6)—

(i)the words from “section 72” to “under”, where it appears for the second time, were omitted; and

(ii)for the words “Schedule 7” there were substituted “Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”.

(4) Section 88 shall apply as if in subsection (1)—

(a)the words from “section 75” to “under” were omitted; and

(b)for the words “Schedule 7” there were substituted “Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”.

(5) Section 89 shall apply as if in subsection (2)—

(a)the words from “section 71” to “under”, where it appears for the second time, were omitted; and

(b)for the words “Schedule 7” there were substituted “Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”.

(6) Section 91 shall apply as if—

(a)in subsections (1), (3)(a) and (b) for the words “this Part” there were substituted “the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”;

(b)in subsection (3)(d)—

(i)the words from “by the Commission” to “78(2) or” were omitted; and

(ii)for the words “Schedule 7” there were substituted “Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”; and

(c)in subsection (5)—

(i)the words “Commission and the” were omitted; and

(ii)for the words “them” in all three places where they appear there were substituted “him”.

(7) Section 92 shall apply as if—

(a)in subsections (1)(b), (3)(f) and (4)(f)—

(i)the words from “in sections 77(2)” to “78(2) and” were omitted; and

(ii)for the words “Schedule 7” there were substituted “Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”;

(b)in subsection (3) the words “the Commission or (as the case may be)”, in all places where they appear, were omitted;

(c)in subsection (3)(a) the words “it or (as the case may be)” were omitted;

(d)in subsection (3)(e) for the word “to” there were substituted “and”;

(e)in subsection (3)(f) the words “(4) and” were omitted;

(f)subsections (4)(a) to (d) were omitted; and

(g)in subsection (5) for the words “this Part” in both places where they appear there were substituted “the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”.

(8) Section 93 shall apply as if—

(a)subsection (1)(a) were omitted;

(b)in subsections (1)(b), (2) and (4) for the words “Schedule 7” there were substituted “Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”;

(c)in subsection (2) the words “Commission or (as the case may be) the” were omitted; and

(d)in subsections (2) and (4) the words “section 80 or 82 or (as the case may be)” were omitted.

(9) Section 94 shall apply as if—

(a)subsection (7) were omitted;

(b)in subsection (8) for the words “Schedule 7” there were substituted “Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”;

(c)in subsection (9) for the words “to (8)” there were substituted “and (8)”.

(10) Section 95 shall apply as if—

(a)in subsections (1), (3) and (6)—

(i)the words from “section 77(2)” to “78(2) or” were omitted; and

(ii)for the words “Schedule 7” there were substituted “Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”;

(b)subsection (4) were omitted;

(c)in subsection (5) for the words “Schedule 7” there were substituted “Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”; and

(d)in subsection (6) for the words “Subsections (4) and” there were substituted “Subsection”.

(11) Section 103 shall apply as if—

(a)subsection (1) were omitted; and

(b)in subsection (2) for the words “section 45 or 62” there were substituted “article 5 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”.

(12) Section 104 shall apply as if—

(a)in subsection (5) for the words “this Part” there were substituted “the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”;

(b)in subsection (6) the words “the OFT,” where they appear for the first time were omitted;

(c)paragraph (a) in the definition of “relevant decision” in subsection (6) were omitted;

(d)in paragraph (b) in the definition of “relevant decision” in subsection (6), for the words from “section 35(1)” to “63” there were substituted “article 6 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”;

(e)in paragraph (c)(i) in the definition of “relevant decision” in subsection (6), for the words “section 45 or 62” there were substituted “article 5 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests Order) 2003”; and

(f)in paragraph (c)(ii) in the definition of “relevant decision” in subsection (6), for the words “section 49 or (as the case may be) 64” there were substituted “article 7 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”.

(13) Section 105 shall apply as if—

(a)in subsection (1)—

(i)for the words from “so as to enable” to “44 or 61” there were substituted “so as to make a report under article 4 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”; and

(ii)for the words from “relevant merger situation” to the end of that subsection there were substituted “European relevant merger situation concerned”;

(b)subsection (2) were omitted; and

(c)in subsections (3)(a) and (3)(b), (4), (5)(a) and (5)(b) and (6) for the words “this Part” there were substituted “the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”.

(14) Section 108 shall apply as if for the words “this Part” there were substituted “the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”.

(15) Section 109 shall apply as if in subsections (1), (2), (3), (5) and (6) for the words “this Part” there were substituted “the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”.

(16) Section 110 shall apply as if in subsections (2) and (9) for the words from “section 39(4)” to “65(3))” there were substituted “article 9(3) of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”.

(17) Section 111 shall apply as if in subsection (5)(b)(ii) for the words from “published”, where it appears for the first time, to “(or given)”, where it appears for the second time, there were substituted “given under article 8 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003, or, if no such report is given within the period permitted for that purpose by that Order, the latest day on which the report may be given”.

(18) Section 117 shall apply as if in subsections (1)(a) and (2) for the words “this Part” there were substituted “the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”.

(19) Section 118 shall apply as if—

(a)in subsection (1)(a) for the words “section 44 or 61” there were substituted “article 4 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”;

(b)in subsection (1)(b) for the words “section 50 or 65” there were substituted “article 8 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”; and

(c)in subsection (5) for the words “sections 38(4) and 107(11)” there were substituted “article 14(8) of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”.

(20) Section 119 shall apply as if in subsection (1) for the words “this Part”, in both places where they appear, there were substituted “the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”.

(21) Section 120 shall apply as if—

(a)in subsections (1) and (2)(b) for the words “this Part” there were substituted “the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”; and

(b)in subsection (1) for the words “relevant merger situation or a special merger situation” there were substituted “European relevant merger situation”.

(22) Section 124 shall apply as if—

(a)in subsections (1) and (2) for the words “this Part” there were substituted “the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”;

(b)subsections (3) and (4) and (6) to (10) were omitted; and

(c)for subsection (5) there were substituted—

“(5) An order made by the Secretary of State under section 28, 111(4) or (6) or 114(3)(b) or (4)(b) as applied by the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003, or under Schedule 2 to that Order shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.”.

(23) Section 125 shall apply as if in subsections (1) and (3) for the words “this Part” there were substituted “the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”.

(24) Section 126 shall apply as if in subsections (1), (4) and (6) for the words “this Part” there were substituted “the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”.

(25) Section 127 shall apply as if in subsection (3) for the words “section 22, 33, 45 or 62” there were substituted “article 5 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”.

(26) Section 128 shall apply as if in subsection (1) for the words “this Part” where they appear on both occasions there were substituted “the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”.

(27) Section 129 shall apply as if in subsections (1) to (4) for the words “this Part” where they appear on all occasions there were substituted “the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”.

2.—(1) The following Schedules of the Act shall apply, with the modifications mentioned in sub-paragraphs (2) and (3) below, for the purposes of this Order—

(a)Schedule 8 (provision that may be contained in certain enforcement orders); and

(b)Schedule 10 (procedural requirements for certain enforcement undertakings and orders).

(2) Schedule 8 shall apply as if—

(a)in paragraph 1 for the words “this Part and Part 4” there were substituted “the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”;

(b)in paragraph 14—

(i)the words “an order under section 75, 83, 84, 160 or 161, or” were omitted; and

(ii)for the words “Schedule 7” there were substituted “Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”; and

(c)in paragraph 24 for paragraphs (a) to (c) there were substituted “the Secretary of State”.

(3) Schedule 10 shall apply as if—

(a)in paragraphs 1(a) and 6(a)—

(i)the words “section 73 or 82 or” were omitted; and

(ii)for the words “Schedule 7” there were substituted “Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”;

(b)in paragraphs 1(b) and 6(b)—

(i)the words “section 75, 83 or 84 or” were omitted; and

(ii)for the words “Schedule 7” there were substituted “Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003”; and

(c)in paragraph 2(1) the words “the OFT, the Commission or (as the case may be)” were omitted.

3.  Section 243(1) of the Act (overseas disclosures) shall not apply to information which comes to a public authority in connection with an investigation under this Order.

Article 16

SCHEDULE 4CONSEQUENTIAL AMENDMENTS

Statutory Instruments Act 1946 (c. 36)

1.  The Statutory Instruments Act 1946 shall apply in relation to any regulations or orders made by virtue of this Order as if they were made under powers conferred by an Act of Parliament.

Registered Designs Act 1949 (c. 88)

2.  In section 11AB of the Registered Designs Act 1949 (powers exercisable following merger and market investigations)—

(a)the reference in subsection (1)(a) to section 66(6) of the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to article 12(7) of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003;

(b)the reference in subsection (1)(a) to paragraph 5(2) or 10(2) of Schedule 7 to the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to paragraph 5(2) or 10(2) of Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003;

(c)the reference in subsection (7) to section 63 of the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to article 6 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003;

(d)the reference in subsection (7) to section 66 of the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to article 12 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003; and

(e)the reference in subsection (8) to Part 3 shall have effect as if it included a reference to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003.

Patents Act 1977 (c. 37)

3.—(1) In section 50A of the Patents Act 1977 (powers exercisable following merger and market investigations)—

(a)the reference in subsection (1)(a) to section 66(6) of the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to article 12(7) of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003;

(b)the reference in subsection (1)(a) to paragraph 5(2) or 10(2) of Schedule 7 to the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to paragraph 5(2) or 10(2) of Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003;

(c)the reference in subsection (6) to section 63 of the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to article 6 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003;

(d)the reference in subsection (6) to section 66 of the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to article 12 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003; and

(e)the reference in subsection (7) to Part 3 shall have effect as if it included a reference to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003.

(2) In section 53(2) of the Patents Act 1977 (statements in certain reports of the Competition Commission to be prima facie evidence of the matters stated) the reference to Part 3 shall have effect as if it included a reference to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003.

Telecommunications Act 1984 (c. 12)

4.  In section 95 of the Telecommunications Act 1984 (modification of licence conditions by order), the reference in subsection (2)(a) to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 7 to the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003.

Airports Act 1986 (c. 31)

5.  In section 54 of the Airports Act 1986 (modification of certain conditions in force under Part 4 of that Act), the reference in subsection (1A)(a) to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 7 to the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003.

Gas Act 1986 (c. 44)

6.  In section 27 of the Gas Act 1986 (modification of licence conditions by order), the reference in subsection (1ZA)(a) to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 7 to the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003.

Copyright, Design and Patents Act 1988 (c. 48)

7.—(1) In section 144 of the Copyright, Design and Patents Act 1988 (powers exercisable in consequence of report of Competition Commission)—

(a)the reference in subsection (1) to—

(i)section 66(6) of the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to article 12(7) of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003; and

(ii)paragraph 5(2) or 10(2) of Schedule 7 to the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to paragraph 5(2) or 10(2) of Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003; and

(b)the reference in subsection (2) to paragraphs 5, 10 and 11 of Schedule 7 to the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to paragraphs 5, 10 and 11 of Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003.

(2) In section 238 of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 (powers exercisable for protection of the public interest)—

(a)the reference in subsection (1) to—

(i)section 66(6) of the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to article 12(7) of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003; and

(ii)paragraph 5(2) or 10(2) of Schedule 7 to the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to paragraph 5(2) or 10(2) of Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003; and

(b)the reference in subsection (2) to paragraphs 5, 10 and 11 of Schedule 7 to the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to paragraphs 5, 10 and 11 of Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003.

(3) In Schedule 2A to the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988, in paragraph 17 (powers exercisable in consequence of competition report)—

(a)the reference in sub-paragraph (1) to—

(i)section 66(6) of the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to article 12(7) of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003; and

(ii)paragraph 5(2) or 10(2) of Schedule 7 to the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to paragraph 5(2) or 10(2) of Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003; and

(b)the reference in sub-paragraph (2) to paragraphs 5, 10 and 11 of Schedule 7 to the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to paragraphs 5, 10 and 11 of Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003.

Electricity Act 1989 (c. 44)

8.  In section 15 of the Electricity Act 1989 (modification of licence conditions by order), the reference in subsection (2)(a) to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 7 to the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003.

Broadcasting Act 1990 (c. 42)

9.  In section 193 of the Broadcasting Act 1990 (modification of networking arrangements in consequence of competition legislation), the reference in subsection (2)(a) to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 7 to the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003.

Water Industry Act 1991 (c. 56)

10.  In section 17 of the Water Industry Act 1991 (modification of conditions of appointment by order), the reference in subsection (2)(a) to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 7 to the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003.

Electricity (Northern Ireland) Order 1992 (S.I. 1992/231 (N.I. 1))

11.  In article 18 of the Electricity (Northern Ireland) Order 1992 (modification by order under other statutory provisions), the reference in paragraph (2)(a) to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 7 to the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003.

Railways Act 1993 (c. 43)

12.—(1) In section 16 of the Railways Act 1993 (modification of licence conditions by order), the reference in subsection (2)(a) to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 7 to the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003.

(2) In section 66 of the Railways Act 1993 (amendments to the Fair Trading Act 1973), the reference in subsection (3) to Part 3 of the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003.

Airports (Northern Ireland) Order 1994 (S.I. 1994/426 (N.I. 1))

13.  In article 45 of the Airports (Northern Ireland) Order 1994 (modification of certain conditions in force under Part 4 of that Order), the reference in paragraph (1A)(a) to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 7 to the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003.

Gas (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 (S.I. 1996/275 (N.I. 2))

14.  In article 18 of the Gas (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 (modification of licence conditions by order), the reference in paragraph (1A)(a) to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 7 to the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003.

Competition Act 1998 (c. 41)

15.—(1) In Schedule 1 to the Competition Act 1988 (exclusions: mergers and concentrations)—

(a)the reference in paragraph 5(a) and (b) to section 62 of the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to article 5 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003; and

(b)the reference in paragraph 5(b) to a special merger situation shall have effect as if it included a reference to a European relevant merger situation.

(2) In Schedule 7 to the Competition Act 1998 (the Competition Commission)—

(a)the reference in paragraph 15(8) to section 64(1) of the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to article 7(1) of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003;

(b)in paragraph 19A(9) the reference in the definition of “merger reference group” to section 62 of the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to article 5 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003;

(c)the reference in paragraph 20(4) to Part 3 of the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003;

(d)the reference in paragraph 20(4)(a) and (b) to—

(i)section 63 of that Act shall have effect as if it included a reference to article 6 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003; and

(ii)a special merger situation shall have effect as if it included a reference to a European relevant merger situation; and

(e)the reference in paragraph 20(4)(a) to special public interest merger references shall have effect as if it included a reference to European public interest merger references.

(3) In Schedule 7A to the Competition Act 1998 (the Competition Commission: procedural rules for mergers and market references etc) in paragraph 1 the reference in the definition of “merger investigation” to section 62 of the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to article 5 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003.

Postal Services Act 2000 (c. 26)

16.  In section 21 of the Postal Services Act 2000 (modification of licence conditions by order), the reference in subsection (2)(a) to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 7 to the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003.

Transport Act 2000 (c. 38)

17.  In section 19 of the Transport Act 2000 (modification of licence conditions by order), the reference in subsection (2)(a) to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 7 to the Enterprise Act 2002 shall have effect as if it included a reference to paragraph 5, 10 or 11 of Schedule 2 to the Enterprise Act 2002 (Protection of Legitimate Interests) Order 2003.

Explanatory Note

(This note is not part of the Order)

Under the European Merger Regulations (ECMR) (Council Regulation (EEC) No. 4064/89 of 21st December 1989 on the control of concentrations between undertakings as amended by Council Regulation (EC) No. 1310/97 of 30th June 1997), if a merger satisfies certain jurisdictional thresholds, that is, it is a concentration with a “Community dimension”, the European Commission (EC) has sole jurisdiction over competition issues and a Member State is precluded from applying its own competition laws (unless a Member State makes a request for the case to be referred back to it for consideration under domestic competition law pursuant to Article 9 of the ECMR and this is agreed to by the EC, or if a Member State invokes Article 296(1)(b) of the EC Treaty(2)).

However, notwithstanding the EC’s sole jurisdiction on competition in such cases, Member States may take appropriate measures to protect legitimate interests so long as they are compatible with the general principles and other provisions of Community law. Public security, plurality of the media and prudential rules are legitimate interests under the ECMR. In addition, other public interests may be invoked which have been communicated to and recognised by the EC pursuant to Article 21(3) of the ECMR.

Section 67 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (EA 2002) provides a mechanism for the Secretary of State to protect legitimate interests where the EC has sole jurisdiction of competition issues. That section enables the Secretary of State to serve a “European intervention notice” if she suspects that a relevant merger situation (as defined in section 23 of the EA 2002) has been, or will be, created; the merger is a concentration with a Community dimension and she is considering whether to take appropriate measures to protect legitimate interests as permitted under the ECMR. She must, however, believe that one or more of the public interest considerations specified (or if not specified, she thinks ought to be specified) in section 58 of the EA 2002 is relevant. Currently, only national security (which includes public security) is specified in section 58 EA 2002, but other public interest considerations may be specified by an Order subject to the affirmative resolution procedure or by other primary legislation. In relation to the recognised water comparator legitimate interest, this interest is protected by the special procedure in the Water Industry Act 1991.

This Order provides for the taking of action by the Secretary of State where a European intervention notice has been given so as to remedy the adverse public interest effects which have resulted from, or may be expected to result from, the creation of a European relevant merger situation—that is where the relevant merger situation is also a concentration with a Community dimension under the ECMR.

The Order follows the procedures set out in the public interest and special public interest schemes of the EA 2002 with appropriate modifications and many of the other provisions of Part 3 of the EA 2002 are applied with modifications where relevant. The Order makes provision for when a European intervention notice comes into force; imposes an obligation on the OFT to produce a report where such a European intervention notice has been given; makes provision for the Secretary of State to refer the matter to the Competition Commission and imposes on them an obligation to report on certain matters within certain time limits. It also enables the Secretary of State to take enforcement action in such European intervention cases and these enforcement provisions mirror to a large extent the public interest and special public interest enforcement regime in Schedule 7 to the EA 2002.