Broadcasters Granada and Carlton were today given the green light to merge in a £4bn (€5.7bn) deal that effectively creates a single ITV network.

Shares in ITV groups Granada and Carlton soared today after speculation that their planned £3.8bn (€5.5bn) merger could get the go-ahead with minimal strings attached.

ITV broadcasters Carlton and Granada today shrugged off the referral of their proposed £2.9bn (€4.3bn) merger to competition watchdogs.

Broadcasters Granada and Carlton have agreed to merge in a deal that paves the way for a single ITV company.