Competition and Markets Authority Chairman

Baroness Stowell of Beeston Excerpts

Monday 27th January 2025 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Gustafsson (Lab)]

I come back to a prior answer; this is not about how we look at independent tactical decisions on a case-by-case basis and reflect on what would or could have been. This is about no longer accepting dormant growth within the economy, viewing our regulators through the lens of how we create long-term sustainable growth and making sure that we are aligned with that. To that end, we are consulting on a new strategic steer regarding the CMA, which is expected soon.

[Baroness Stowell of Beeston (Con)]

My Lords, I welcome the CMA’s recent commitment to review its approach to mergers and acquisitions and would welcome any further moves in that direction. Can the Minister tell the House what, in the implementation of the digital markets and competition regime, she has asked the new chairman to prioritise in support of UK businesses and economic growth?

[Baroness Gustafsson (Lab)]

As has been referred to, the CMA has new powers under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act. There has been no change regarding that specific policy. We have a consultation open around the strategic steer for the CMA as a whole. That is something we are expecting soon, but is more around the ongoing direction of the CMA.