On 21 March 2012, following an in-depth investigation, the European Commission announced that it has approved the UK government’s plans to relieve the Royal Mail of excessive pension costs and to provide restructuring aid consisting of a debt reduction of £1,089 million. Read more.

On 23 February, the European Commission (“Commission”) opened an in-depth investigation, to verify whether the measures notified in the context of the restructuring of the Czech national flag carrier Czech Airlines are in line with the EU rescue and restructuring aid guidelines. The measures comprise a loan of CZK 2.5 billion (around €94 million) granted by the State-owned undertaking Osinek under allegedly preferential conditions, its later de-collateralisation and transformation into equity capital and a potential guarantee for the purchase of an airplane.

On 21 January, the Office of Fair Trading (“OFT”) announced that it would carry out a market study, supported by Ofwat, the UK water and sewerage regulator, looking at the market for treatment of organic waste. The study will look at whether the market is working effectively to deliver the best outcomes for customers. The OFT decided to launch this study after considering a proposal and request from Ofwat. The OFT will lead on the study and utilise its experience in conducting market studies and of the municipal, commercial and industrial organic waste sectors.