On Monday (22 June 2020), changes to the Enterprise Act 2002 merger control thresholds were published regarding (i) UK businesses critical to combating COVID-19 and public health emergencies, and (ii) certain UK businesses and technologies deemed important to national security. These changes are being implemented in advance of the forthcoming National Security and Investment (“NS&I”) Bill, which is anticipated to be published shortly and will establish a standalone UK foreign investment review regime. They also follow 2018 amendments when the UK Government materially reduced the jurisdictional thresholds for businesses engaged in military or dual-use goods, computer processing unit or quantum technology activities. In the case of national security, the changes are intended to safeguard the UK ahead of more comprehensive powers to be introduced in the NS&I Bill.
