The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) announced in February that it had referred the merger for an in-depth phase 2 investigation in order to assess whether it would be in patients’ interests, following concerns that it could result in adverse effects for patients by reducing choice and competition across a range of elective specialties.

The issues statement identifies clearly for all interested parties the key questions that the inquiry is examining. A decision on the merger will be made by a group of independent panel members supported by a case team of CMA staff. The issues statement does not imply that the inquiry group has yet identified any competition concerns. The full issues statement is available on the inquiry case page along with all other published information relating to the inquiry.

The inquiry group must report by 12 August 2015.

Anyone wishing to respond to the issues statement should do so in writing, by no later than 5pm on 16 April 2015 to Ashford.Surrey@cma.gsi.gov.uk or write to: