The deal, which requires approval by regulators, would
bolster Google's already strong position in online advertising. Burson cites the deal as part of a larger discussion of "fair and free competition" in Internet-search and privacy rights of consumers.
In Europe, Burson urged Internet companies to sign an online petition for a more "transparent and competitive Internet" at www.i-comp.org.
Josh Gottheimer, an executive vice president at Burson, says the firm was hired by Microsoft to set up i-comp.org as a "discussion forum" for issues of privacy and competition. He says the firm doesn't disclose its clients as a general practice, but in some cases companies were told Microsoft was a member of the group. Microsoft spokesman Jack Evans says Microsoft is a client of Burson's and is a "founding member" of the group directing companies to i-comp.org.
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