Monthly Archives - January 2005

Ofcom has just published [10 January 2005] its Review of the Unversal Service Obligation. The Universal Service regulation ensures that basic fixed line telecoms services are available to all UK consumers at an affordable price.

Under sections 66 and 67 of the Communications Act 2003, Ofcom requires BT and Kingston Communications to provide a range of universal services including:

• Public call boxes;
• Low cost schemes to help those on low incomes;
• Telephone lines capable of delivering dial up internet access;
• Special services for people with disabilities.

This consultation seeks views on proposals which are designed to ensure that existing universal services requirements keep pace with developments in technology and with changes to consumers” needs.

Ofcom review of the Unversal Service Obligation

Radio spectrum is a vital resource which underpins the broadcast and telecommunications industries, as well as essential public services such as the emergency services and air traffic control.

Ofcom is today (13 January 2005) seeking views on proposals to make a significant number of spectrum bands available to the market over the next few years. The consultation also outlines options for extending spectrum trading and liberalisation to mobile phone services.

This consultation is part of Ofcom’s wider programme of making greater use of market mechanisms to manage spectrum.

The document invites comments on these issues and on a number of other relevant issues.

Spectrum Framework Review: Implementation Plan