Joe Natale and Brad Shaw told a parliamentary committee that the telcos’ proposed merger will benefit Canadian consumers and allow the companies to build a new generation of networks. (The Canadian Press)

Talking point: Government officials, consumer advocates and executives from other companies will also testify before the committee later this week. Rogers’ proposed acquisition of Shaw has faced criticism for its implications for consumer pricing and service. In his testimony, Natale acknowledged that the most complex part of regulatory approvals would involve Shaw’s Freedom Mobile. Last year, the Liberals ordered Canada’s Big Three telecoms to cut average wireless bills by 25 per cent within two years, or face regulatory action. The proposed acquisition of Shaw comes months after Rogers’ failed attempt to buy Cogeco’s Canadian assets.