The European Commission has launched a tool that makes it possible for whistleblowers to report suspected cases of price-fixing and to make leniency requests to E.U. antitrust regulators online – a move it hopes will make it easier for companies to come forward.

The eLeniency tool will allow companies and their legal representatives to file statements and documents. It can be used by companies applying for leniency treatment such as immunity from, or a reduction of, fines in cartel cases. It can also be used as part of cartel settlement procedures and other forms of cooperation not involving cartels.

The tool will save companies from having to visit the European Commission's premises.

The European Commission's leniency programme rewards companies reporting a cartel or providing evidence by giving them reduced fines or immunity, and has been a key tool in fighting cartels and other anti-competitive practices.

Documents can be uploaded to a secure server. The server will follow the same confidentiality rules as for oral and written submissions made in the traditional way. Information on the server cannot be copied or printed, the Commission said in a statement.

Use of the eLeniency system is voluntary. Companies and their lawyers can continue to make statements and submissions using the current oral procedure if they wish to do so.