LONDON (Alliance News) - The UK's Competition and Markets Authority Wednesday said it is looking into an anticipated acquisition of learndirect Ltd's computer-based testing business by Pearson PLC's VUE arm.
Learndirect and Pearson exchanged contracts for the e-Assessment business at the end of September, subject to regulatory approval. No financial details were disclosed.
"Through taking on this contract we look forward to continuing to provide an excellent service to all our customers and test takers," said Managing Director of Pearson VUE Bob Whelan in a statement at that time.
By acquiring the business Pearson will retain ownership of the contract for the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency testing mandate, which was due to transfer to Learndirect in September next year.
The CMA said Tuesday that it is considering whether or not the deal would result in a "substantial lessening of competition within any market or markets in the United Kingdom for goods or services."
Shares in Pearson were down 0.8% at 1,191.00 pence Wednesday afternoon.
By Hana Stewart-Smith; hanassmith@alliancenews.com; @HanaSSAllNews
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