Carlton Communications Plc yesterday opened the first salvo in what is expected to be a free-for-all for UK independent television companies when it launched an agreed bid for Central Independent Television Plc, and took the opportunity to bring forward its year-end figures as well. It is offering UKP624m in cash and paper for Central, but it already has 19.1%, and agreement for the deal from another 20%; the bid values Central at UKP758m. From next year, foreigners and UK publishers will be allowed to bid for ITV companies too, putting pressure on those already in the business to move fast.
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