NTL declares interest in ITV merger

Cable company NTL said today it was interested in pursuing a merger with broadcaster ITV.

The UK’s biggest cable operator, which has already bought Virgin Mobile and Telewest this year, said it had advised ITV of its interest in exploring a “possible combination transaction”.

It has scheduled an initial conversation with the company, which has struggled recently in a weak advertising market.

NTL said: “This process is at a very preliminary stage and there is no assurance that these discussions will lead to any offer being made for ITV.”