Aer Lingus share probe continues

Britain’s Office of Fair Trading has until June 18 to complete its investigation into Ryanair’s minority stake in Aer Lingus, after Ryanair failed to secure a Supreme Court order to halt the investigation.

If the office decides Ryanair’s shareholding results in a realistic prospect of a substantial lessening of competition, then it will pass the matter on to the Competition Commission.

The commission could ultimately force Ryanair to sell some or all of its 29.8% holding in Aer Lingus, if it deems the holding is likely to result in less competition.