The CMA is an independent non-ministerial department. They currently employ around 650 people, who work mainly at their office in Victoria House, London. They have representatives in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

 

They are responsible for:

- investigating mergers which could restrict competition
- conducting market studies and investigations in markets where there may be competition and consumer problems
- investigating where there may be breaches of UK or EU prohibitions against anti-competitive agreements and abuses of dominant positions
- bringing criminal proceedings against individuals who commit the cartel offence
- enforcing consumer protection legislation to tackle practices and market conditions that make it difficult for consumers to exercise choice
- co-operating with sector regulators and encouraging them to use their competition powers
- considering regulatory references and appeals

Their responsibilities are supported by a range of powers which are based on legislation.