Stearns: Comcast-NBC merger will lead to 'greater innovation'

Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Fla.), the ranking member of the House Energy and Commerce subcommittee that examining the proposed Comcast-NBC deal in a hearing this morning, said the merger should be approved.

"There is little to suggest a Comcat-NBC combination would seriously threaten competition in the media and entertainment industries," he said in his opening remarks. "This is a highly competitive segment of the economy and consumers stand to benefit."

He pointed out that NBC's networks represent approximately nine percent of national cable network advertising and affiliate revenue, giving the combined company a total of 12 percent. That would put it in fourth place bethind Disney/ABC, Time Warner and Viacom--the same position NBC occupies today.

And net neutrality regulations should not be considered for the merger, he said.

"Proponets of Internet regulation may seek network neutrality mandates on the Comcast-NBC deal," he said. "Doing so would be inappropriate and harmful."

Stearns remarks were echoed by other Republicans on the panel, saying the merger will create new content and services for consumers.