To initiate transcription RNA polymerase does not require which one of the following:
DNA polymerase can only elongate existing polynucleotide chains, and thus requires a primer. RNA polymerase can initiate RNA synthesis de novo and hence does not require a primer. Ref: Molecular Biology of the Gene Watson, 2004, Page 376 ; Lippincott's Illustrated Q & A Review of Biochemistry by Michael A. Lieberman, Rick Ricer, 2009, Page 294
Template (ds DNA)
Activated precursors (ATP, GTP, UTP, CTP)
Divalent metal ions (Mn2+, Mg2+)
Primer