Conclusion 10

Our work on competition policy and the pre-appointment hearing has highlighted some areas of concern which we believe require risk mitigation measures. We therefore recommend to Ministers that they: • underline in the Government’s strategic steer that the CMA’s pursuit of growth must not risk market concentration that diminish levels of competition or damage consumers; 18 • make clear the need for operational independence of the CMA in case decisions; • make clear that they expect rigorous implementation of the powers available in the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 to better promote competition and protect consumers; • reconsider whether up to two days a week is the right time commitment required of the CMA Chair, and whether further time should be made available to allow time for crisis management; and • consider requiring Mr Gurr to recuse himself from any decision about designating Amazon with Strategic Market Status. We will continue to closely monitor the work of the CMA, and in particular, progress against the identified areas of concern. (Recommendation, Paragraph 37) 19