Spain: CNMC may to turn to Brussels to prevent split-up

Sources close to Spanish competition agency CNMC have said the agency would be willing to appeal to Brussels in order to prevent a possible split-up of the institution into two separate agencies, a move proposed by the new PP and Ciudadanos governing coalition. Jose María Marín, president of the CNMC, has said he will not defy any decision taken by Parliament, but until this happens the agency will continue to defend their position, arguing for the greater efficiency and independence made possible by a fully-empowered and coordinated markets and competition regulator.

“Of course we’ll appeal to Brussels. Whether we get it is another matter, but we will try.” said the source, discussing the possibility of the CNMC being divided into separate Competition/Consumer Protection and Market Regulator agencies.

Brussels has had a complicated relationship with the CNMC since its creation in 2013. The European authorities object not to the concentration of power within the organism, but rather complain that many of its previous responsibilities have been absorbed by other ministries, effectively reducing (in their opinion) the autonomy and independence of the agency. The CE has filed various motions against Spain over the matter.

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