Anglo American, through its UK subsidiary, Tarmac Limited (Tarmac), and Lafarge are both global firms active in the supply of construction materials in the UK. The companies are proposing to establish a 50:50 joint venture to which each of them would contribute the bulk of their construction materials businesses in the UK.
The Commission has been asked to decide whether the joint venture may be expected to result in a substantial lessening of competition in any market or markets for goods or services in the UK and is expected to report by 16 February 2012. The CC are inviting submissions in writing from all interested parties, in writing by 23 September 2011.
The CC, an independent public body, which carries out investigations into mergers, markets and the regulated industries, will then have a 24-week period in which it is required to publish its report. This can be extended by no more than eight weeks if it considers that there are special reasons why the report cannot be published within the period.
Further information on the inquiry, including the terms of reference and other key documents, are available at the CC website at: www.competition-commission.org.uk.
On 16 August 2011, the OFT published its market study into aggregates, cement and ready-mix concrete, proposing to refer the sectors to the CC for more detailed investigation.