The Myths -- and Realities -- About the Comcast/Universal Transactions

In a document Comcast is using in visits with Washington policymakers about the deal to acquire a controlling stake in NBC Universal, the company states, "Comcast does not and will not foreclose consumer access to any online Internet content for anticompetitive purposes."

It also says the deal "will have no impact" on cable prices and that there is "nothing to [the] rumor" that the deal presages a spin-off of the NBC network or local stations. Comcast argues that the deal will not reduce competition or result in a "meaningful" increase in market competition.

The promise, labeled as a "Reality," came in a sheet titled "The Myths--and Realities--About the Comcast/Universal Transactions,." The Myth it was responding to? "Comcast could discriminate against unaffiliated online Internet content." Comcast is planning to seek FCC approval of the deal by the end of this month. That will include a request for the transfer of FCC licenses and a public interest filing outlining those commitments. It is expected to file for antitrust review with the Justice Department soon.