Agency delays debate on newspaper, TV ownership

WASHINGTON -- The Federal Communications Commission withdrew plans to immediately consider relaxing a rule that bars a company from owning a television station and newspaper in the same city, saying commissioners aren't ready to decide.

With the agency divided along party lines, Republican FCC Chairman Michael Powell must strike a balance on any proposals. Two Republicans and one Democrat are awaiting Senate confirmation to join the commission, which could happen next month, giving Republicans a majority.

"The timing is probably not ripe yet in terms of the FCC transition," said Scott Cleland, chief executive of the Washington-based Precursor Group.

News Corp. and other large broadcasters want the FCC to loosen ownership limits such as the rule keeping a broadcaster from owning a newspaper in the same market. Small stations and consumer groups say consolidation will limit viewer choice.

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