UK regulators to probe 1.6 billion pound Sky-ITV merger

British regulators will now examine a proposed 1.6 billion pound takeover of ITV by Sky.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy issued a Public Interest Intervention Notice on Wednesday. This action authorizes the Competition and Markets Authority and Ofcom to investigate the transaction. The two bodies must report their findings to Nandy by January 27, 2027.

Nandy stated she has specific concerns regarding the merger. She said she will introduce new streaming legislation to address these issues. The notice allows the regulators to assess how the deal affects the UK media market and free speech.

Sky, which is owned by US company Comcast, agreed to buy ITV's media and entertainment division in July. The purchase includes ITV's terrestrial channels and streaming service. ITV Studios, the production unit behind shows like I Am a Celebrity, will remain a separate entity.

Sky argued the combination serves the public interest. A company statement said the deal includes clear commitments to protect ITV's identity and its public service broadcasting obligations. The statement also noted protections for the distinct editorial voices of Sky News and ITV News.

ITV said it looks forward to co-operating fully with the investigation. If the deal is approved, the combined Sky and ITV entity will become part of NBCUniversal. This change will occur after the completion of NBCUniversal's split from Comcast.