Brussels, 03/07/2003 (Agence Europe) - The European Commission has confirmed that the deadline in the investigation into the acquisition by Vivendi Universal Publishing by Lagardère had been extended and that its decision would be made public in December. Amelia Torres, spokesperson for Commissioner Monti explained that, "The probe was started on 5 June. In the meantime, we asked for information from the companies about certain markets…an approach which suspends the procedures. We are waiting for a reply from these companies this month and the new cut-off date will be in December if the situation advances accordingly".