The Subsidy Advice Unit – Our First Year and Next Steps

By: Rachel Merelie(Competition & Markets Authority)

The Subsidy Advice Unit (SAU), operating within the framework of the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), marks its first anniversary as a pivotal component of the UK’s domestic subsidy control regime. Established over a year ago, the SAU plays a dual role, primarily focused on swiftly assessing potential distortive subsidies while also overseeing a broader monitoring function for the subsidy control framework. As we reflect on our inaugural year, much of our efforts have concentrated on the former function, prompting us to initiate consultations regarding the operational aspects of our monitoring responsibilities.

Our First Year
In the year since its inception on January 4th, 2023, the Subsidy Advice Unit has been actively engaged, handling 33 referrals of subsidies and schemes meeting the regulatory criteria and issuing 28 comprehensive reports. These reports meticulously evaluate and offer non-binding advice on public authorities’ compliance assessments with the subsidy control requirements mandated by legislation. Our work has extended across the entirety of the UK, encompassing various public entities such as government departments, arms-length bodies, combined authorities, and local authorities. Interested parties can access the reports we’ve published thus far via the provided link.

Collaboration with Public Authorities:
Throughout our inaugural year, fostering collaborative relationships with public authorities has proven mutually beneficial. Engaging in early, informal discussions regarding potential referrals, even when subsidy details are not finalized, has enabled us to elucidate the process, outline timelines, and provide guidance on the subsequent steps for advancing the referral…

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