UK regulator launches investigation into Vodafone-Three merger

The CMA has up to 40 days to examine the deal between Vodafone and Three and decide whether it warrants a full investigation. Photograph: Pavlo Gonchar/SOPA Images/Shutterstock

The UK competition regulator has launched an investigation into the proposed merger of Vodafone and Three to create the UK’s largest mobile phone operator.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) now has up to 40 days to examine the deal and decide whether it warrants being subjected to a full, in-depth investigation on competition grounds.