AUGUSTA - Hoping to keep their review of the complex case on a brisk pace, Maine utility regulators Thursday moved unanimously on a couple of procedural actions in the proposed sale of Verizon's northern New England wired phone network to FairPoint Communications.

The Public Utilities Commission denied a request for an evidentiary hearing sought by labor unions on a partial settlement reached by the two telecommunications companies, state consumer advocates and other parties in the case. Such a hearing would have lengthened the process.

The commission also asked the parties in the case to quickly clear up a number of questions it has with a proposed sale settlement, known as a stipulation. The commission's biggest questions have to do with the standard of quality to which FairPoint will be held should the sale go through.

Citing a need to "push this case forward" toward a final resolution, PUC Chairman Kurt Adams asked the parties involved to clear up matters by 5 p.m. Friday so the stipulation can be amended.

The commissioners also agreed to set a Dec. 26 hearing date on the amended stipulation, which will contain no new evidence. The PUC could also deliberate a final decision at that time.

"I agree on the need to proceed swiftly," Commissioner Sharon Reishus said.

FairPoint saw Thursday's action as "one step toward the finish," said Jeff Nevins, the Charlotte, N.C.-based company's northeastern spokesman.

FairPoint wants to take ownership of Verizon's 1.6 million access lines, along with Internet service, in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. Verizon would retain its wireless phone operations in the region.

The Maine PUC's review is being watched closely in neighboring New Hampshire and Vermont, where regulators must also approve the sale if it is to be finalized.