Competition Commission
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CC confirms partial approval for FirstGroup Scottish bus route changes
The Competition Commission (CC) has confirmed that it will allow FirstGroup to withdraw one bus service and modify two other services in the Glasgow operating area, but has ruled against other changes requested by the operator.
This confirms the CC’s provisional decision which was published in March.
The services are covered by undertakings given by FirstGroup in 2004 to the CC when it took over the Scottish rail franchise. These undertakings include limits on FirstGroup’s ability to make changes to routes and frequencies. FirstGroup can apply to vary these undertakings if there has been a change of circumstances—for example, if the routes have become loss-making since the undertakings were originally accepted.
In its final decision published recently, the CC has agreed that FirstGroup can withdraw the 64 service between Carmyle & Glasgow Central as well as modifying the 19 (Easterhouse–Glasgow Central), and 262 'out of hours' service (Airdrie–Glasgow Central) because they are continuing to make a substantial loss. The CC has ruled against allowing changes to the 31 service (Glasgow Central–East Kilbride) and 262 'in hours' service.
The CC has also agreed to some changes to the undertakings so as to change the way in which they are monitored.
Notes for editors
1. The CC is an independent public body, which carries out investigations into mergers, markets and the regulated industries.
2. The OFT has a duty to keep under review orders and undertakings made under the Fair Trading Act 1973 and the Enterprise Act 2002 and, from time to time, to consider whether, by reason of any change of circumstances, an order and/or undertaking is no longer appropriate. The CC has the power to vary or revoke the orders and/or undertakings. It will now review the OFT’s advice and make a final decision.
3. The FirstGroup/Scotrail undertakings group are: Alasdair Smith (CC Deputy Chairman and Chairman of the Group), Katherine Holmes and John Smith.
4. Enquiries should be directed to Rory Taylor or Siobhan Allen on 020 7271 0242.
