The CMA is currently consulting on this question.

And the short answer is ‘yes’.

But not for the reasons that are often put forward – i.e. that the CMA is too tough on efficiency claims.

In my next Subscriber Open House I’ll be discussing the real problem with efficiency claims and what the CMA and merging companies need to do to fix it.

In particular I’ll discuss why changes by the CMA alone won’t be sufficient to make a real positive difference, at least not without compromising consumer interests.

Contrary to popular wisdom, there are many efficiency cases to learn from.

I’ll also be talking about focused research that is long overdue that could and should guide policy.

For a free-of-charge Open House discussion on this important topic call me this Thursday, March 27th 2025, any time between 2pm and 5pm.

Drop me a line if you’d like to pre-book the popular 2pm slot. Otherwise it’s first come, first served. Strictly named subscribers to this blog only.