This chapter deals with Chapter I Prohibition, which is the UK domestic equivalent of Article 101 TFEU. It is to be applied and interpreted in a way that is consistent with the application of Article 101 TFEU, unless there is a ‘relevant difference’. There is no requirement for an effect on trade between Member States, but on trade within the UK. The prohibition has been applied to localized agreements. If Article 101 TFEU is applicable to any practice being examined under Chapter I Prohibition, it must be applied. Chapter I Prohibition may be applied in conjunction with EU law, but the result must not be inconsistent. A breach of Chapter I Prohibition may incur penalties, damages, and a requirement of conduct modification, and also renders void any offending agreement.
Chapter
11. The Chapter I Prohibition
Chapter
22. Competition law and intellectual property
This chapter discusses the relationship between competition law and intellectual property rights. Competition law may limit the ability to exercise intellectual property rights. Article 101 TFEU and Chapter I Prohibition may apply to agreements to license intellectual property, as well as pay-for-delay settlements between a patent holder and potential competitors. Article 102 TFEU and Chapter II Prohibition may apply to the use of intellectual property rights by a dominant undertaking, particularly when the protected asset is essential to third parties. The existence of intellectual property rights does not automatically confer a dominant position — the product or service may still face competition.
