German media authorities approve Sky Deutschland deal

BSkyB has gained “unconditional media concentration clearance” from some German state media authorities to buy 57.4% of Sky Deutschland, as part of its Sky Europe plans.

Sky confirmed that it has got clearance from state media authorities in Bavaria, and Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein.

The news comes just a week after 96% of BSkyB’s independent shareholders voted in favour of the firm’s proposed acquisition of Sky Italia and Sky Deutschland at a general meeting.

“Sky continues to progress the public offer to all Sky Deutschland shareholders in accordance with the offer document. Further updates will be provided in due course,” said the firm in a statement.

BSkyB announced in July that it has entered into conditional agreements with 21st Century Fox to acquire 21st Century Fox’s 57.4% interest in Sky Deutschland and 100% stake in Sky Italia.

The European Commission approved the deal last month, clearing the way for the creation of Europe’s largest pay TV operator.