BHP say EU merger suspension normal part of process

LONDON, Sept 2 (Reuters) - BHP Billiton (BLT.L) (BHP.AX) said on Tuesday a suspension by the European Commission of its review of plans to acquire Rio Tinto (RIO.L) (RIO.AX) was a normal part of the process.

"Suspensions are a normal part of phase two investigations under the EC merger regulations," BHP spokesman Ruban Yogarajah said. The company was working to provide the requested information, he added.

"BHP Billiton remains confident that all the regulatory preconditions for its offer for Rio Tinto can be satisfied." (Reporting by Eric Onstad; Editing by David Holmes)