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[bbc] The proposed merger between mobile phone firms Orange and T-Mobile in the UK could come under further scrutiny over fears it will harm competition.

The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has been looking at whether it should consider how the tie-up will affect UK phone users.

It says its initial view is that it should, as a merger will “significantly” affect competition.

It has asked the European Commission to allow it to study the deal.

If the OFT gains permission and continues to think customer choice will be seriously affected it will refer the deal to the Competition Commission for further study.

Orange and T-Mobile deal ‘threatens competition’