U.S. Seeks Data on Monsanto-Delta Merger

St. Louis-based Monsanto Co. and Scott, Miss.-based Delta & Pine Land Co. said the Justice Department has asked for more information and documents on a proposed merger between the two companies. In a joint statement, the companies said they intend to comply with the request as quickly as possible. Monsanto, which develops agricultural, nutritional and pharmaceutical products, agreed last month to acquire Delta & Pine Land--a cottonseed breeder and marketer--in a stock deal that valued Delta at roughly $1.9 billion. The two firms said the Justice Department’s request extends the waiting period during which the companies are legally prohibited from closing the transaction. Monsanto stock rose 38 cents to close at $57.88, and Delta & Pine Land rose 19 cents to $45.69, both on the NYSE.