The proposed transfer of 23 London newspaper titles currently owned by Independent News & Media to Newsquest has been referred to the Competition Commission.

It would not normally have been referred to the competition watchdog because the newspapers sell less than 50,000 copies each – but Newsquest’s existing operations in the Greater London area prompted the inquiry.

Competition minister Melanie Johnson said: “This is a large deal and I consider that the proposed transfers give rise to potential competition concerns regarding concentration of ownership of newspaper titles that merit further detailed investigation of the transfers as a whole by the Competition Commission before consent could be given.

“In coming to a decision I reviewed all relevant issues, including competition, concentration of ownership, employment and the need for accurate presentation of news and free expression of opinion.

“I have also had regard to previous reports on the newspaper industry by the Competition Commission.”

The Competition Commission is due to report back to the Department of Trade and Industry by August 19.

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