The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched an investigation into several companies suspected of colluding to rig bids for contracts funded through the government's Condition Improvement Fund (CIF). This fund is crucial for maintaining safe and compliant educational buildings across England, particularly for schools in poor condition.

Juliette Enser, Executive Director of Competition Enforcement at the CMA, emphasized the importance of the CIF in ensuring that students learn in safe environments. While the investigation is in its early stages, the CMA is committed to thoroughly assessing whether competition law has been violated.

The investigation began with unannounced inspections at various business premises to collect evidence, including physical and digital documents. The CMA is collaborating closely with the Department for Education (DfE) throughout this process.

If the CMA finds sufficient evidence of wrongdoing, it may issue a statement of objections, allowing the companies involved to respond. However, it is important to note that not all investigations lead to such statements, and no conclusions have been drawn yet.

Public procurement is particularly susceptible to anti-competitive behavior, and the CMA has previously imposed significant fines on firms involved in bid rigging. The investigation is timely, as a new debarment regime is set to take effect in February 2025, which could ban companies found guilty of competition law violations from future public contracts.