OFT decisions

The OFT has many different tools that enable it to carry out its aim of making markets work better for consumers.

This section explains some of the most important decisions that we make.

Competition Act 1998
Following an investigation under the Competition Act, the OFT may make a decision establishing that one or more of Articles 81 and 82 and the Chapter I and Chapter II prohibitions have been infringed. In such cases, the OFT may impose penalties on the undertakings committing the infringement and give directions to bring the infringement to an end. If the OFT has made an infringement decision, it must publish its decision.

If the OFT has made a decision that there are no grounds for action in respect of a particular agreement or conduct, it may publish its decision.

See Competition Act decisions

Mergers
The OFT is the UK's first stage merger authority. The merger decisions which the OFT makes under the Enterprise Act 2002 fall into one of four categories:

• that a merger is not a relevant merger situation
• that the merger is not being referred to the Competition Commission
• that undertakings in lieu of a reference have been accepted by the OFT, or
• that the merger is being referred to the Competition Commission.

See mergers decisions

Market investigation references
Following an investigation under the Enterprise Act the OFT may make a decision to refer a market or series of markets to the Competition Commission for further investigation where it suspects that there may be features of the market which distort competition. Alternatively the OFT may accept undertakings in lieu of a reference where this is appropriate.

See market investigation references

Consumer Credit Act 1974/2006
The OFT will not grant a licence to anyone it considers is not a 'fit person' to engage in the business activities which a licence covers. It also has the power to revoke licences if it considers that the licensee is no longer a 'fit person'.

Decisions are announced by press release

Estate Agents Act 1979
Following an investigation under the Estate Agents Act the OFT may make a decision to ban individuals from working as estate agents.

Decisions are announced by press release

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