Part 5Competition in communications markets

Chapter 2Media mergers

New general functions in relation to media mergers

383Advice and information in relation to media mergers

After section 106 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (c. 40) there shall be inserted—

“106AAdvice and information in relation to media mergers

(1)

The Secretary of State may prepare and publish general advice and information about the considerations specified in section 58(2A) to (2C).

(2)

The Secretary of State may at any time publish revised, or new, advice or information.

(3)

Advice or information published under this section shall be prepared with a view to—

(a)

explaining the considerations specified in section 58(2A) to (2C) to persons who are likely to be affected by them; and

(b)

indicating how the Secretary of State expects this Part to operate in relation to such considerations.

(4)

Any advice or information published by the Secretary of State under this section shall be published in such manner as the Secretary of State considers appropriate.

(5)

In preparing any advice or information under this section, the Secretary of State shall consult the OFT, OFCOM, the Commission and such other persons as he considers appropriate.”