UK regulator Ofcom was correct to deny UK mobile operators Vodafone and O2 an automatic right to upgrade their 900Mhz 2G services to 3G, the Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT) has ruled.
According to CAT, Ofcom correctly interpreted EU regulations, which…
UK regulator Ofcom was correct to deny UK mobile operators Vodafone and O2 an automatic right to upgrade their 900Mhz 2G services to 3G, the Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT) has ruled.
According to CAT, Ofcom correctly interpreted EU regulations, which allow national regulators to change spectrum allocation where suitable to ensure fair competition.
A spokesman for O2, which had launched the appeal that was backed by Vodafone, said the group was “naturally disappointed” with the ruling.
“We will be reviewing the decision and considering our position,” he said. “However, we are encouraged by the tribunal’s view that it would be a tragedy if yet further legal wrangles caused more delay.”
To this end, a source close to O2, which is owned by Spain’s Telefonica, hinted there may be such an update on the company’s position “imminently”.
