Introducing a New Digital Fair‑Play Regime
Picture the tech giants as your boss—Google, Facebook, and the like—dictating how the office should run. Now imagine a new line of management that makes sure everyone gets a voice. That’s the fresh Digital Markets Unit (DMU) rolling out in the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority.
What the DMU Will Do
- Work hand‑in‑hand with Ofcom and the Information Commissioner’s Office.
- Draft and enforce a “code of conduct” for platforms that hold a lot of market power.
- Have powers to pause, reverse or block unfair decisions by tech giants.
- Lay out clear financial penalties for those who don’t play by the rules.
Why It Matters for You and Your Small Business
These platforms bring lots of perks—fast services, easy connections, and a stage for creative content. But the concentration of power can stifle new ideas, push advertising costs up, and squeeze out smaller players.
- Consumers will see increased transparency about how their data is used.
- They’ll get a real pick‑of‑choice: opt in or out of personalised ads.
- Platforms won’t be allowed to wire in hard‑to‑bypass restrictions that lock you into one service.
Extra Benefits for News Publishers and Creators
Digital platforms now impose uneven terms on news outlets, limiting how they can monetize content. The new code will enforce fair commercial arrangements, safeguarding high‑quality journalism in the UK.
UK’s Digital Economy Still Thrives
In 2018, the digital sector contributed nearly £150 bn to the UK economy. Yet the CMA’s market study shows that lack of competition hinders new services and leads to higher costs for businesses—and ultimately, for consumers.
Next Steps
- Government will consult on the DMU’s structure early 2021.
- Legislation will follow as soon as parliamentary time allows.
- It builds on the 2018 Digital Competition Expert Panel’s Furman Review, acting on its six strategic recommendations.
Bottom Line: A More Level Playing Field
With the DMU and the new code in place, consumers gain choice and control over their data, small businesses get a fair shot at advertising, and news publishers receive the respect and revenue they deserve.
