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27|04|07

Ofcom completes investigation into BSkyB’s shareholding in ITV plc

Ofcom has completed its public interest investigation into British Sky Broadcasting Group's (BSkyB) acquisition of a 17.9% shareholding in ITV plc.

As requested by the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, Ofcom is today submitting to him advice on whether the transaction raises public interest concerns about the number of different owners of media enterprises.

Ofcom's advice is that there are public interest issues, in relation to sufficient plurality of news provision for both cross media and television news in the UK.

The Secretary of State will now consider Ofcom's advice which will inform his decision on making a reference to the Competition Commission. The Secretary of State will announce his decision by 26 May 2007. Ofcom’s report will be published no later than this date.

Ends.

Notes for Editors and CSEs

1. The OFT is today also reporting to the Secretary of State on competition issues.

2. Ofcom’s separate work to consider whether, following BSkyB's share acquisition, there has been change of control is ongoing. Under the Communications Act 2003, Ofcom is required to consider whether there has been a change of control such that there should be a review of certain ITV plc programming obligations.

3. Ofcom is the independent regulator and competition authority for the UK communications industries, with responsibilities across television, radio, telecommunications and wireless communications services.

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