European Union to break up Google

Googling something could soon be just another forgot term in the history books at least for Europeans, as the European parliaments long running anti-trust case seems to finally be coming to a head.  On November 27th, the EuropeanUnion Parliament (EUP) voted to put pressure on Google to split off the Google Search Engine from the rest of the business.

The EUP itself does not actually have enough power to order Google to split off its search engine which at face value makes the results of the vote void, however the EUP does have the ability to apply pressure to the European Commission (EC).

And the EC does have the regulatory powers over how businesses operate in Europe so it could order Google to split off its search engine from the rest of its business. However the EC has never before ordered the break-up of any company, making it seem doubtful it would do so now despite pressure from the EUP.  

The result of the vote which didn’t really surprise anyone was backed with a majority of 384 votes with 174 voting against. The EUP argues that a break-up of the Google search engine will break the Google monopoly on internet searches in Europe. An estimated 90% of the market in Europe being owned by Google so a break would create a more level playing field.

However the EUP also views the planned break up as a way to close up some of the tax loop holes Google and other big businesses have been using to avoid paying tax in Europe. To make matters even more complicated, Google is already facing a possible 5 Billion dollar fine from the EUP for offering prominent places to its other services in search results.

The motion against Google has received a consistent amount of support from members of the EUP but the proposed motion to break up Google has attracted some criticism from overseas. Notably from a number of high ranking American politicians house judiciary committee chairman, Bob Goodlatte even sent a letter stating that he was “troubled” by the proposed motion.

Google so far have yet to comment on the matter which could be taken as a sign that they don’t really feel threatened by the results of the vote. Or it could simply mean they’re mulling over the options available to them. Only time will tell just how the results of the vote effect Google’s standing in Europe or even if it effects them at all. 

David Varty