(Telecompaper) The European Commission has opened an in-depth investigation into Liberty Global's proposed takeover of Dutch cable operator Ziggo. The EC is concerned the merger of Ziggo with Liberty Global's own Dutch operator UPC could reduce competition in a number of pay-TV and telecommunications markets in the Netherlands. The companies notified the EC of the deal in mid-March, and the EC was expected to take a preliminary decision by 08 May. The Commission now has another 90 working days, until 18 September, to take a decision.