WASHINGTON-The Justice Department has asked for additional information on Alltel Corp.’s proposed $6 billion purchase of Western Wireless Corp., both companies said.
While the latest development could delay final DoJ action on the pending merger, the department’s request is not unusual and does not necessarily imply the deal is in trouble. The transaction is expected to be approved by the Justice Department and the Federal Communications Commission later this year.
Petitions to deny the Alltel-Western Wireless merger are due at the FCC March 9.
Alltel said it anticipates the acquisition will be completed by mid-year.
