UK government review of Block Exemption Regulation

Date: Thursday 25 February 2021

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The Department for Business, Enterprise and Industrial Strategy has announced a review on the functioning of European Block Exemption Regulations in the UK via the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA).

Subject to views it receives from stakeholders during the course of the review, the CMA’s current view is that the retained VBER largely delivers what it was intended to deliver, but it should be examined rigorously to ensure that it takes account of any specific features of the UK economy so that it serves the interests of UK businesses and consumers. The CMA plans to consult on its proposed recommendation in summer 2021. Full details can be seen here.

The European Commission has already completed its evaluation of the existing EU VBER and the accompanying EU Guidelines on Vertical Restraints, which has concluded that both are relevant and useful tools that help businesses self-assess vertical agreements. The CMA will draw on relevant evidence from the Commission’s evaluation as part of its review.

IAAF Chief Executive Wendy Williamson has signed up to the round table discussions, which will be taking place this Spring, to represent IAAF and its members. If anyone wishes to be involved directly they can register by sending an email to vberreview@cma.gov.uk. If you are interested, could you please advise Wendy Williamson directly so that input can be co-ordinated.

 

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