ECN MODEL LENIENCY PROGRAMME

In a system of parallel competences between the European Commission (hereinafter the Commission) and National Competition Authorities (hereinafter NCAs), an application for leniency1 to one authority is not to be considered as an application for leniency to another authority. It is therefore in the interest of the applicant to apply for leniency to all Competition Authorities (hereinafter CAs) which have competence to apply Article 101 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (hereinafter TFEU) in the territory which is affected by the infringement and which may be considered well placed to act against the infringement in question. The purpose of the ECN Model Leniency Programme (hereinafter the ECN Model Programme) is to ensure that potential leniency applicants are not discouraged from applying as a result of the discrepancies between the existing leniency programmes within the ECN. The ECN Model Programme therefore sets out the treatment which an applicant can anticipate in any ECN jurisdiction once alignment of all programmes has taken place. In addition, the ECN Model Programme aims to alleviate the burden associated with multiple filings in cases for which the Commission is particularly well placed by introducing a model for a uniform summary application system. The ECN Model Programme sets out a framework for rewarding the cooperation of undertakings which are party to agreements and practices falling within its scope. The ECN members commit to using their best efforts, within the limits of their competence, to align their respective programmes with the ECN Model Programme. The ECN Model Programme does not prevent a CA from adopting a more favourable approach towards applicants within its programme.