Comment Invited On Proposed BSkyB Takeover Of Open

The minister for consumers and corporate affairs, Kim Howells, has published draft undertakings in relation to the proposed acquisition of British Interactive Broadcasting (Open, as it is now known) by BSkyB. Plans for Sky to increase its stake in the interactive TV company to full ownership were announced in July last year (see BSkyB Takes Control Of Open, Plans To Improve Look, Feel and Services) and in October Howells agreed with the director of fair trading that a public consultation into competition concerns should be undertaken.

The announcement today was made in order to give interested parties the opportunity to comment on the text of the draft undertakings. All representations must reach the Office of Fair Trading by 5pm on 3 April.

Office of Fair Trading: 020 7211 8000 www.oft.gov.uk

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