These two new regulations, in fact, do more than just simplify existing procedural rules. Under Regulation No 2842/98 the ‘sufficient interest’ requirement no longer applies to addressees, applicants, complainants or other third parties wishing to express their views orally. However, it is still at the Commission’s discretion whether they are allowed to do so. As a result of the second new Regulation, No 2843/98, procedures for the transport sector have been brought into line with procedures governing other sectors. It is therefore an important development in the application of competition rules and procedures to this sector.

Maya Barr
Freshfields Deringer
Brussels