U.K.’s Competition Authority to Probe Freelance Contracts

The Competition Markets Authority (CMA) in the U.K. is investigating suspected breaches of competition law by several broadcasters and production houses in freelance contracts.

The CMA is investigating suspected breaches of competition law by the BBC and ITV, as well as Hartswood Films, Hat Trick Productions, Red Planet Pictures, Sister Pictures and Tiger Aspect Productions.

The CMA says it has “reasonable grounds” to suspect breaches of competition law, but it has not yet determined if there is sufficient evidence of any infringements. This new probe is looking into non-sports content, with a previously announced investigation under way into the employment of freelancers in the production and broadcast of sports programming.

ITV acknowledged the probe and says it is “committed to complying with competition law and to cooperating with the CMA’s inquiries.”