The UK Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act (DMCCA) received Royal Assent on May 24, 2024, after a series of amendments ping-ponged back and forth between the House of Commons and The House of Lords. It is a major piece of legislation for businesses and consumers and reflects the most significant changes to the powers of the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) since its creation. These changes are not confined to the digital arena. With the imminent advent of the General Election, the CMA rushed out its Consultation on proposed Guidance to the DMCCA (3 hours before the period of prior election ‘purdah’ imposed for such consultations). Responses to the Consultation should be made by July 12, 2024. It will likely come into force in October 2024 and this blog considers some of the implications for business.
