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There are reports that Sony is talking to Telewest about buying its multichannel business Flextech.
The magazine Broadcast reports John McMahon, the managing director, Europe of Sony Pictures Television International, as saying that he had met Telewest representatives and discussed a possible deal.: "At the right price we would be interested in all or parts of Flextech," he is reported to have said.
The media giant would be most interested in Flextech's UKTV venture with BBC Worldwide which has a first-look deal for BBC shows and runs nine channels on Sky and cable and two on Freeview. However buying UKTV would require BBC Worldwide's approval as it has power of veto over any new partner.
Telewest is talking to a variety of parties about buying Flextech and is believed to be looking for bids of around £750m. Disney has already expressed an interest but only wants to pay around £350m.
Sony Pictures Television International, has a small UK presence which it is interested in building up. It has looked at launching its own channels into the UK in the past but decided against it.
