The European Commission’s proposal to create a more unified telecoms market has been criticised by domestic telecoms regulators across the continent.
Berec, which represents the national regulators from all 28 EU member states, added its voice to…
The European Commission’s proposal to create a more unified telecoms market has been criticised by domestic telecoms regulators across the continent.
Berec, which represents the national regulators from all 28 EU member states, added its voice to previous criticisms from operators, industry experts and lobbyists.
The long-discussed reforms proposed by Neelie Kroes, the European Commissioner for the Digital Agenda, centre on creating a more unified telecoms market across the continent.
However in Berec’s view, Kroes’ recommended changes may be ill-conceived and are being rushed through the legislature without a proper analysis of potential consequences.
The group said that the reforms marked a sea change in the EC’s thinking, from a pro-competitive mantra towards one that favours market consolidation. It said it risked undermining the Commission’s aim to create a predictable regulatory environment and could damage the promotion of efficient investment and effective competition.
Berec was disappointed that it was not asked for its opinion on the proposals and felt there should also have been a public consultation.
It is also concerned at the prospect of the EU’s “one-stop shop” pitch, which would mean operators would only be required to get authorisation from a single national regulator to do business in all member states.
“These proposals risk undermining the ability of national regulators, whether acting individually or collectively, to take appropriate and proportionate regulatory action in all the relevant markets,” Berec said in a statement.
Meanwhile Telekom Austria has added its name to the list of detractors. Like other mobile operators which have commented on Kroes ideas, its criticism centred on the proposal to phase out roaming fees.
“The plan will take money away from telecommunications, which would be urgently needed for broadband investments,” a Telekom Austria spokesperson said.
“As everybody knows broadband investments are good for the economy and creating growth … We as Telekom Austria Group do not understand why the commission is counteracting its own plans.”
The Austrian incumbent also felt let down as it said it had based its capital expenditure on a predictable regulatory environment.
“There was a clear glide path on roaming, which was the basis for our investments,” it said in a statement.
