BRUSSELS, Belgium (May 6, 2008) — The European Commission said it has sent a Statement of Objections to a number of companies active in the supply of marine hoses in regard to alleged participation in a cartel in violation of European Union rules.
The EC did not name the companies, but Trelleborg A.B., Dunlop Oil and Marine Ltd., Manuli Rubber Industries S.p.A. and Bridgestone have been under investigation for some time by antitrust authorities in the U.S., Japan and Europe.
A Statement of Objections is a formal step in Commission antitrust investigations in which the commission informs the accused in writing of the objections raised against them.
The recipient of a Statement of Objections can reply in writing, setting out all facts relevant to its defense. The party may also request an oral hearing to present its comments on the case.