TIM CEO says single network deal not halted by political crisis

MILAN (Reuters) - Talks between Telecom Italia (TIM) and state lender CDP to form a single network operator are proceeding despite an early election to be held in Italy next month, TIM CEO Pietro Labriola said on Thursday, citing remarks from a top CDP official.

Under Labriola, TIM is seeking an overhaul of its business centred around ceding control of its landline grid to CDP in a bid to raise cash and cut its debt pile.

(Reporting by Elvira Pollina; Editing by Keith Weir)