Merger of two of the UK's biggest mobile network providers could now face an in-depth investigation
The proposed merger between Vodafone and Three could lead to "Higher prices" and "Reduced quality" for customers, the UK's competition watchdog says.
The proposed £15bn deal could now be subject to an in-depth investigation.
The combined group would be the UK's biggest mobile network with about 27 million customers.
The firms said the deal would result in an additional investment of £11bn in the UK.But the Competition and Markets Authority's deputy chief economic adviser Julie Bon said she had "Identified concerns which could lead to higher prices for customers and lower investment in UK mobile networks."These warrant an in-depth investigation unless Vodafone and Three can come forward with solutions.
The regulator is also concerned that the deal may make it more difficult for smaller players such as Sky Mobile and Lyca Mobile - who rent space from the bigger operators - to get a good deal.
Vodafone's UK chief executive, Ahmed Essam, defended the deal, saying it would allow the companies to create an operator with the scale required to take on market leaders BT/EE and Virgin Media-O2. Vodafone-Three merger faces competition probe.
Anger and sadness over Pitchfork merger with GQ. Companies.
With a loyal fanbase, Apple is in a unique position which is now under fire, writes Zoe Kleinman.
As Apple begins to allow other app stores on iPhones one entrepreneur criticises its behaviour.
A primary school in Blandford is planning to offer the basic phones to encourage a change in behaviour.