The British government has ordered media watchdog Ofcom to investigate the public interest issues arising from BSkyB's controversial move to buy a 17.9% stake in ITV last year.
Trade and Industry Secretary Alistair Darling has asked the media watchdog to conduct an initial inquiry into the public interest considerations of Sky's stake under the country's Enterprise Act 2002. The decision follows heavy lobbying by MPs.
The shock move by Sky in November scuppered NTL's £5 billion bid for ITV and sparked a furious reaction from Sir Richard Branson, NTL's biggest shareholder.
