Gunther Oettinger, the EU's digital commissioner, told Die Welt that a decision could be expected 'very soon' from the Competition Commissioner, Margrethe Vestager. Her predecessor tried three times to agree a settlement with the US giant. The issue is whether Google used its dominant position through its search engine to make it harder for competitors - such as online travel agents and shops - to function. 

More critically

Numerous law firms are involved in the issue, representing large numbers of businesses which feel they have been disadvanted. Mr Oettinger said: 'I am certain that we have to view the market position and business model of Google more critically than in the past.' There is some speculation that 'very soon' could mean early this week but lawyers have said that it is unlikely that the Competition Commissioner's team would be ready in that time. Source: Financial Times