UK Competition Policy Post-Brexit: In the Public Interest?

Abstract

This paper provides an analysis of the UK’s future Competition Policy, following its withdrawal from the EU. It is focused on whether the UK should make greater use of public interest tests in merger regulation, implement industrial policies aimed at protecting UK industries, or allow antitrust rules to diverge from those of the EU. We find that some of the new freedoms achieved by Brexit will be damaging to competitive markets. It may be necessary to legislate to limit these effects.

Keywords: Competition Policy; Public Interest; Industrial Policy; Merger Control; State Aid; Brexit

JEL Classification: K21, L44, G34, H25