UK Government Ousts CMA Chair to Boost Growth

Marcus Bokkerink, chair of the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), has been removed by the government to emphasize a pro-growth regulatory approach. His dismissal aligns with the government's push, led by Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, to attract investment and promote economic expansion, as highlighted during their attendance at the World Economic Forum in Davos. The decision follows concerns that the CMA was not adequately focused on fostering growth, exemplified by its involvement in high-profile mergers like Microsoft and Activision-Blizzard, and Vodafone and Three Mobile Networks. Doug Gurr, former Amazon UK boss, will serve as interim chair. This move is part of a broader strategy where regulators are being urged to ease business burdens and support the economy. The removal is seen as a clear signal of the government's commitment to reshaping regulatory culture to prioritize investment and growth.