ITC Invites Views On Granada’s Proposed Acquisition Of United

The Independent Television Commission (ITC) is inviting public comment on whether a proposed merger between Granada and United News & Media would act against public interest. The Commission has taken the unusual step of asking for comments without a formal bid being made due to the particular circumstances of the case.

Granada announced its intention to make a bid for either United or Carlton after the two media giants revealed their own merger proposals (see Granada Poised To Bid For Rivals). It was referred to the Competition Commission in February (see Granada Referred To The Competition Commission).

Under the terms of the 1990 Broadcasting Act Granada may not become connected with the owner of a national newspaper group and continue to hold its ITV licences if they are deemed to be against the interests of the public. United News & Media owns several national newspapers including the Express, the Express on Sunday and the Daily Star.

The deadline for comments in 2 May 2000, and a copy of the ITC Guidance Note on the Public Interest Test can be found at www.itc.org.uk.

ITC: 020 7306 7743