Sir Anthony, executive chairman of Independent News & Media, has long coveted the Australian media group John Fairfax Holdings, owner of the SMH and Melbourne daily The Age. However, Australian media-ownership laws currently prevent foreigners from owning more than 25% of a mass-circulation newspaper.
In an interview with the Australian Financial Review, which is also owned by Fairfax, Sir Anthony confirms that he is still interested in acquiring Fairfax. He says: "Our interest and admiration for Fairfax continues and, if an opportunity occurs, either through a change in legislation or a change in economic circumstance, we'd certainly be at the party."
Despite the fact that proposed changes to Australian media laws have been delayed, in the interview Sir Anthony says: "I would be very confident that the foreign media ownership laws in the foreseeable future will change to accommodate more foreign ownership."
The conservative Liberal government in Australia had proposed relaxing restrictions on foreign ownership of media. However, it failed to win the support of either of the main opposition parties, forcing it back to the drawing board.
Shares in Fairfax, listed on the Australian Stock Exchange, closed up by 0.63% today at $3.18.
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