Our work
The CC carries out a range of different investigations but in each case, the inquiry follows a clearly set out process and timetable. Guidelines have been published which set out both the process and the methodology the CC will follow when carrying out an inquiry. This way parties involved in an investigation know what to expect and how to present their case most effectively.
The CC’s investigations are designed to be both comprehensive and fair. Its procedures allow for a close examination of all the issues and include several stages which ensure that parties have plenty of chances to make their case and to respond to the CC and other participants where appropriate. Although parties will not always agree with the final outcome, the aim is to ensure that they have received a fair hearing.
Throughout an investigation, the CC seeks to publish all the submissions it receives from various parties as well as its own surveys and working papers so that the issues and viewpoints surrounding a case are as transparent as possible. All this enables the CC to come to the right conclusion by presenting a reasoned and balanced assessment of all the available evidence.
Such investigations do require sufficient time to carry out a thorough job but the CC does work to set timetables and its timescales more than stand comparison with similar work carried out by other authorities. Sacrificing thoroughness for speed would risk compromising the investigations’ integrity and ultimately can be counterproductive.
