UK to set up new antitrust unit to scrutinise Google, Facebook

London, Nov 27 : The UK government on Friday said it will set up an antitrust unit to introduce and enforce a new code to govern the behaviour of platforms that currently dominate the market, such as Google and Facebook.
The new unit could be given powers to suspend, block and reverse decisions of tech giants, order them to take certain actions to achieve compliance with the code, and impose financial penalties for non-compliance.
The move is aimed to towards giving consumers more choice and control over their data, help small businesses thrive, and ensure new outlets are not forced out by their bigger rivals, the government said.
A dedicated Digital Markets Unit, which will be set up within the government’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), will work closely with regulators including Ofcom and the Information Commissioner’s Office to introduce and enforce the new code.
“Digital platforms like Google and Facebook make a significant contribution to our economy and play a massive role in our day-to-day lives — whether it’s helping us stay in touch with our loved ones, share creative content or access the latest news,” the UK’s Business Secretary Alok Sharma said in a statement.
“But the dominance of just a few big tech companies is leading to less innovation, higher advertising prices and less choice and control for consumers.”