After section 31E of the 1998 Act insert—

“31FPower for Secretary of State to impose time-limits on investigations etc.

(1)

The Secretary of State may by order impose time-limits in relation to—

(a)

the conduct by the CMA of investigations or investigations of a description specified in the order;

(b)

the making by the CMA of decisions (within the meaning given by section 31(2)) as a result of investigations or investigations of such a description.

(2)

Before making an order under subsection (1), the Secretary of State must consult the CMA and such other persons as the Secretary of State considers appropriate.”