Johnson & Johnson Bid for Synthes, Inc. Faces In-Depth EU Probe

The European Commission said on Friday it was opening and in-depth investigation into the proposed purchase by Johnson & Johnson (JNJ.N) of Swiss medical device maker Synthes (SYST.VX) to make sure it does not harm competition. "The proposed acquisition would remove a competitor from some markets which are already concentrated. The Commission needs to make sure that effective competition is preserved, in order to maintain innovation and prevent harm to patients," Joaquin Almunia, EU commissioner in charge of competition policy, said in a statement.