The CMA has structured these principles using its new "4Ps" framework—pace, predictability, proportionality and process. While some of the commitments in the Charter are no more than a formal statement of existing practice, others appear to be genuine and very welcome improvements to the UK merger control regime. These include aims to shorten review processes, homing in earlier on potential areas of concern, and to issue more focused information requests. The CMA promises to allow businesses more regular direct engagement with decision makers.

The CMA has also now formally launched its much-anticipated review of its approach to merger remedies. 

In this note, we summarise the CMA’s new commitments to merging parties in the UK and what could be in store for behavioural remedies in merger investigations in the future.