Tabcorp in game still

GAMBLING giant Tabcorp says it still hopes to put its proposed $11 billion merger with rival Tatts to a shareholder vote next month, despite a court setback.

The plans were dealt a blow on Wednesday when the Federal Court referred the deal back to the Australian Competition Tribunal after an appeal by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.

But if the tribunal can reach a new determination by September 28, as indicated to the court, Tabcorp said it expected shareholders to have their say at the planned scheme meeting on October 18. After trading halts, Tabcorp shares fell 1.3 per cent to $4.24, and Tatts gave up 1.4 per cent to $4.02.