Corporate report: Framework document between the Competition and Markets Authority and the Department for Business and Trade

This framework document sets out the broad governance framework within which the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) and the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) operate. It provides a concise map of roles, responsibilities, and interactions that ensure the UK’s competition, consumer, and business environment is fair, dynamic, and well-managed.

At the heart of the framework is clarity about authority and accountability. The CMA is the country’s independent competition and consumer protection authority. Its duties include investigating anti-competitive practices, enforcing consumer protection laws, and promoting competition for the benefit of consumers. The DBT, as the government department with responsibility for policy, strategy, and delivery related to business and trade, anchors the policy direction and national priorities that shape the operating environment for industry, markets, and consumers.

The document outlines the governance architecture that coordinates these functions. It highlights the key governance bodies, decision-making mechanisms, and the processes that enable effective oversight while preserving operational independence where appropriate. By detailing roles and lines of accountability, the framework promotes a transparent interface between policy development and enforcement activity.

A central feature of the governance framework is the governance of risk and the safeguarding of integrity. The document describes how risks are identified, assessed, and mitigated across both organisations, ensuring that enforcement actions, policy reforms, and programme delivery are conducted in a manner that upholds the highest standards of probity. It also sets out conflict-of-interest provisions, due diligence processes, and whistleblowing channels, reinforcing a culture of ethical practice and public trust.

Collaboration and communication are emphasised as essential components of effective governance. The framework explains how the CMA and DBT coordinate on strategic reviews, policy consultation, and stakeholder engagement. It also details the mechanisms for joint governance reviews, performance reporting, and shared learning, ensuring that policy settings remain responsive to market developments and stakeholder needs.

The framework recognises the importance of transparency. It describes how information about governance processes, decision criteria, and outcomes will be made accessible to the public and to Parliament, subject to appropriate safeguards for sensitive information. This openness supports accountability and helps stakeholders understand how decisions are reached, on what basis, and with what expected impacts.

In terms of delivery, the document covers planning, resource allocation, and performance measurement. It clarifies how strategic priorities are translated into programmes, how resources are allocated to achieve intended outcomes, and how performance against objectives is monitored and reviewed. It also explains the cadence of governance reviews and the process for refreshing the framework to reflect changing statutory requirements, market conditions, and policy priorities.

The governance framework is designed to be durable yet adaptable. While it lays down stable principles and procedures, it also anticipates the need for iterative refinement in response to evolving enforcement challenges, technological advances, and shifts in the regulatory landscape. The overarching aim is to maintain a governance model that supports rigorous enforcement, informed policy-making, and accountable public service.

For stakeholders, the framework offers clarity on how the CMA and DBT interact to deliver on their respective mandates. It sets expectations for engagement, consultation, and feedback, while also delineating boundaries to preserve the integrity and independence of enforcement activities. By articulating roles, governance processes, and accountability channels, the document reinforces confidence that competition, consumer protection, and business support remain central to the UK’s economic strategy.

In conclusion, this governance framework serves as a foundational reference for the ongoing collaboration between the CMA and DBT. It outlines the structures, processes, and behaviours that enable effective governance, robust policy development, and principled enforcement—ultimately supporting a fair and vibrant marketplace for all.

July 7, 2026 at 09:30AM
企业报告：竞争与市场局（CMA）与商务与贸易部（DBT）之间的框架性文件
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/competition-and-markets-authority-cma-framework-document
本框架性文件阐述了竞争与市场局（CMA）与商务与贸易部（DBT）共同运作所遵循的广义治理框架。

阅读更多中文内容： 在 CMA 与 DBT 之间的治理框架：构建透明、高效的协作基础