UK to probe vehicle makers' alleged cartel activity

An inquiry was under way today into alleged cartel activity involving commercial vehicle manufacturers, the UK's Office of Fair Trading said.

The OFT is understood to have visited the UK premises of Mercedes-Benz as part of the probe.

An OFT spokesman said: “The OFT is investigating suspected cartel activity involving commercial vehicle manufacturers in the UK.

“Investigations are being carried out under both the Enterprise Act 2002 and the Competition Act 1998. The investigations are at an early stage.

“The OFT will not be in a position to conclude whether it considers the law has been infringed until it has completed its investigations and assessed the available evidence.”

One individual has been arrested and released on bail in connection with the case, the OFT confirmed.