An investigation by UK media regulator Ofcom into the proposed takeover of Sky by 21st Century Fox has been delayed until after the country’s general election on June 8.
Ofcom said that Culture Secretary Karen Bradley had extended the deadline for submissions of the public-interest report into the proposed merger until June 20.
“The issues we are required to consider in the public interest assessment may overlap with our own consideration of Sky’s fitness to hold broadcasting licences,” Ofcom said. “Given this overlap, we are extending the consideration of our fit and proper assessment, and expect to reach conclusions on June 20.”
Bradley was originally expected to receive the findings of two Ofcom investigations – into whether Rupert Murdoch is a “fit and proper” owner and whether the deal would give him too much control of the media industry by May 16.
Sky is a leading sports broadcaster, with rights in the UK to properties such as football’s English Premier League.