11.   That has been enough to attract the attention of the Federal Trade Commission, which says it is monitoring the mergers to make sure they do not hinder competition.

12.   The agency said the agreements hindered competition.

13.   The Justice Department will decide whether the combination hinders competition.

14.   The rivals argued that the ruling hindered competition.

15.   Their concern is that overly protective patent regulation in Europe could hinder competition by helping large software manufacturers maintain their dominant positions.

16.   To be sure, the Justice Department could block any merger that it felt would hinder competition.

17.   DOT officials said they would review Orbitz once it begins its full operation in June, and will respond if they feel the site hinders competition.

18.   Michelin North America spokeswoman Nancy Banks said the company is doing whatever it can to stop Bandag from violating antitrust laws and hindering competition.

19.   Prior to the meeting with Microsoft, Novell had given assistance and submitted complaints to the Justice Department and states suing Microsoft for unlawfully hindering competition.

20.   The European Union has questioned the Onex plan, saying it would hinder competition for flights between London and Canadian airports.