Despite everything there is one issue on which Apple and the independent sector agree - a merged Sony BMG ain't a good prospect. Representatives from both were in Brussels yesterday to speak at the European Commission hearing on the proposed merger. After both Sony and BMG responded to the EC's statement of objections to the their proposals on Monday, those who oppose the further consolidation of the music industry were yesterday stating their case.
Representing the independent labels, trade organisation IMPALA said that the increased dominance of one major player in the music industry would make it harder for them to bring new artists to market, which would in turn reduce consumer choice and cultural diversity.
Also speaking out against the proposed merger were a consortium of small record shop owners, mainly from France, and the the Independent Music Managers Association.
The arguments of all parties will now be considered by a "devil's advocate panel" of EC anti-trust experts. A final decision will be taken by 22 Jul at the latest, although an announcement could be made as early as 15 Jul.