BT’s TalkTalk swoop risks broadband monopoly, rival bidder warns

What happened: A rival bidder urged ministers to block BT from acquiring TalkTalk, warning it would create a UK broadband monopoly. BT made a late entry into the auction for TalkTalk, which is fighting insolvency. Key numbers: TalkTalk carries a £1.4bn debt pile. Epiris is bidding for PXC and asks for £100m owed to Openreach to be written off. Why it matters: Rivals warn of a legal quagmire and possible competition breaches if the deal is allowed. TalkTalk lenders are considering legal action if BT wins approval. BT's CEO sought assurances from Whitehall on avoiding a prolonged probe.

A rival bidder urged ministers to block BT from acquiring TalkTalk, warning it would create a UK broadband monopoly. BT made a late entry into the auction for TalkTalk, which is fighting insolvency.

Rivals warn of a legal quagmire and possible competition breaches if the deal is allowed. TalkTalk lenders are considering legal action if BT wins approval. BT's CEO sought assurances from Whitehall on avoiding a prolonged probe.