UK Plans to Increase Control Over Google’s Search Operations
On Tuesday, Britain’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said that it might give Google “strategic market status.” According to Reuters, this step is meant to make it harder for the American tech giant to run its search services. The designation would give UK regulators more power to control Google’s search operations and make sure that competition is fair.
In its press release, the CMA pointed out that Google handles over 90% of general search queries in the UK. Millions rely on Google to navigate the internet, while more than 200,000 UK businesses depend on its search advertising to reach customers. The CMA believes Google’s dominance gives it excessive control over online information and business visibility.
The regulator is thinking about a number of things. These include making it easier for people to switch to other search engines and making sure that businesses are treated fairly in Google’s search results. The CMA also wants publishers to be more open, so they can better understand and control how their content shows up in search results. These changes could start as soon as October if the plan goes through.
First Big Tech Firm Targeted Under New UK Powers
Google would become the first company designated under the UK’s new Digital Markets Competition Regime, which came into effect earlier this year. This framework promotes competition and innovation in digital markets while protecting consumers and businesses from harmful practices.
Google responded with concerns about the CMA’s approach. Oliver Bethell, Google’s senior director for competition, said: “We’re concerned that the scope of the CMA’s considerations remains broad and unfocused. A range of interventions is being considered before any evidence has been provided.” Google warned that these changes could have serious consequences for UK businesses and consumers.
Despite Google’s objections, the CMA insists that stronger competition will drive innovation and fairness. The decision, expected in October, may set a precedent for regulating other powerful tech companies in the UK.
