The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched a new campaign targeting illegal business cartels across a range of industries.

Following a 30% rise in the number of tip-offs last year following CMA's first digital campaign, whistleblowers are now being offered a reward of up to £100,000 for coming forward with information over illegal activity.

Over the past two years, the CMA has issued £151 million in fines following successful investigations into anti-competitive practices. It is also currently investigating 15 cases where competition law may have been broken.

The latest 'Safe, not Sorry' campaign will target a range of industries that are at a greater risk of cartels forming. These sectors include: construction, manufacturing and business support services, all of which either a history of reported cartel activity or characteristics that make them vulnerable to cartels.

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Stephen Blake, Senior Director for Cartels at the CMA, said: "We are committed to tackling cartels wherever we find them. More people are reporting illegal activity to us and we urge anyone with information to come forward. If you’re involved, it’s better to be safe, not sorry and to tell us about it first – before someone else does.

"For those who were not involved but have witnessed illegal activity, we urge them to do the right thing. We know that this is a sensitive issue and some people could worry about what might happen to them if they speak to us. All information is treated confidentially and we can discuss any concerns that people may have over keeping their identity secret."

The CMA said that anyone who comes forward with information about their involvement can receive significant reductions in fines and avoid being disqualified from running a company. If they are the first to come forward, they can receive total immunity, including from criminal prosecution.

For more information on the new campaign, visit here.

(LM)