Commission launches public consultation on future universal service in e-communications

Digital Agenda Commissioner Neelie Kroes said that the consultation would help to see if it is necessary to update the rules to ensure that all EU citizens have access to essential communication services, including fast internet. Reactions from consumers, industry stakeholders, and policy experts will enable the Commission to decide if it needs to present new legislative proposals on universal service obligations for telecoms by end of 2010. The consultation will run until 7 May 2010, and the European Commission will report on its outcomes in a Communication. The Commission will also organise a public workshop on 30 March 2010 so that all interested parties can exchange their views.

The Commission is seeking views on the following key areas:
• Is basic concept of universal service still valid?
• Should universal service principles help to provide broadband for all?
• What is the right balance between national flexibility and a coordinated EU approach to universal service?
• How should universal service be financed in the future?
 

Detailed information on this matter can be found on:
http://ec.europa.eu/information_society/policy/ecomm/library/public_consult/universal_service_2010/index_en.htm

Moreover, a public consultaion on certain universal service principles in electronic communications closed in Poland on 26 February 2010. The consulation was launched by the Minister of Infrastructure on 25 January 2010 to seek views from telecom environments.

The Ministry of Infrastructure kindly thanks for submitted information. This may follow with legislative proposals for a new telecommunications law as well as public debate relating to the place of universal service provision in electronic communications in a competitive and rapidly-evolving digital environment.