Compensation likely in settlement cases in revised Competition Bill

Legislation likely to be introduced in ongoing Budget session of parliament

The government, in changes being introduced to a Bill, is considering allowing compensation to be claimed even in settlement cases, said sources. The addition to the settlement clause is being made to protect consumers, a senior official said.

The final Competition Amendment Bill, however, will keep cartels out of the settlement provision, sources said. A parliament standing committee, in its report on the Bill, had suggested that cartels be allowed to participate in a settlement arrangement as a pragmatic recourse.

The government is also likely to take away any immunity to internal legal advisors from examination on oath by the