15 October – LAWFUEL – The Law News Network – On Tuesday 11 October the European Commission informed Rio Tinto plc and the other companies involved that it has closed its investigation concerning alleged anti-competitive practices in the copper concentrate market with no adverse findings.
The Commission’s investigation began in May 2003 when it carried out so-called “dawn raids” at the premises of Rio Tinto plc, BHP Billiton plc and others involved in the copper concentrate market.
Rio Tinto plc was advised by inhouse counsel Adrian Lumley-Smith and Sarah Rumsby, and a Linklaters team comprising partners Gavin Robert (competition) and Michael Sanders (litigation) and associates Claudia Berg and Jennifer Masterson.
Gavin Robert said: “This goes to show that the fact that the European Commission has opened an investigation into anti-competitive practices does not mean that the investigation will necessarily lead to an infringement decision and fines. Naturally we are very pleased with the result for our client.”
