EU: Commission may ban Google practices if settlement talks fail

European Commissioner Juaquin Almunia said the regulator would be forced to take the “tougher” route to solve the current case with Google if negotiation talks break down. In a speech made in Madrid on Thursday, Almunia assured the Commission would send a statement of objections and potentially a ban on certain practices by Google for which the search giant is under investigation. Rivals of the company recently called for the watchdog to reject a settlement offer made by Google, labeling the concessions inadequate and potentially opening the door for future abuses. Earlier this week EU deputy director-general for antitrust Cecilio Madero confirmed the regulator has received “very negative” feedback from competitors concerning Google’s offer. Almunia stated, however, that he will continue on the assumption that a settlement is possible and that, if reached, the matter would be resolved by the end of the year.

Full Content: Bloomberg

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