Ftc Seeks Data On Compaq-Digital Deal

The Federal Trade Commission wants more information on Compaq Computer Corp.’s plans to buy Digital Equipment Corp., but neither company expects the scrutiny to delay the deal.

The deal, expected to close by June, was worth $9.6 billion when it was announced in January and is the technology industry’s largest ever.

“We’re not at all surprised that they requested additional information.” Stephanie Lucie, a Compaq attorney, said. “We think we’ll satisfy their concerns.”

Lucie said the request did not suggest the Houston-based company might have to divest some operations to address regulators’ anti-trust concerns. “Our reading of the request is that will not be necessary,” she said.