The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission does not wish to enter into a 'slanging match' with Australis Media over its proposed merger with Foxtel whilst the court action continues, ACCC Chairman, Professor Allan Fels, said today.
However in view of Australis Media's comments today about jobs, it should be noted that there would also likely be an employment shakeout if the merger occurred, he said.
The fact that there would be a reduction in 'duplicative staffs' was indicated in a consent solicitation statement lodged with the US Securities and Exchange Commission in September.
The ACCC had no option but to go to court, given that the parties had indicated that the merger would proceed unless the ACCC took that action.
The ACCC believes that the merger would have major effects on the whole future of the price of local telephone calls, as well as on competition in pay television.
In making its decision to oppose the merger, the ACCC made a full assessment of the situation.
For further information about this media release: Professor Allan Fels, Chairman Ms Lin Enright, Director, Public Relations, (02) 6243 1108
