FCC Seeks More Info on DirecTV/News Corp

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From our friends at SkyReport.com

The team reviewing News Corp.'s proposed takeover of DirecTV and Hughes made another request for information concerning the transaction.

The data request made late last week centered on local TV stations and retransmission consent agreements. Specifically, News Corp. was asked by the FCC if it has retained rights to negotiate retransmission consent agreements for any independently-owned TV station affiliated with FOX, and whether it has negotiated retransmission consent agreements on behalf of an independently-owned station.

The data request came as FCC Media Bureau Chief Ken Ferree said he expects the commission will soon re-start its clock on reviewing the deal. Also, last week, News Corp. Chairman Rupert Murdoch and other company executives met with commission staff to discuss the transaction.