April 26, 2016

The telecoms consultation sought views on topics such as the use of EU rules to incentivise network rollout, efficient spectrum management, the role of universal service rules, the content and scope of regulation of communications services, and institutional and governance issues.

According to the Commission’s report, respondents felt that competition law principles and market power tests should continue to underpin the EU’s regulation in this field.  Ubiquitous connectivity relies on a competitive environment, giving sufficient space to competition to invest.  The increasing role of wireless connectivity elicited views regarding predictable and coordinated spectrum management, which was seen by many as crucial in boosting digital network and services rollout, not least for facilitating and translating 5G into a success story.  The telecoms consultation also found that end-user specific regulation should take into account market and technological developments.  The need for policy adjustment was widely recognised in order to improve connectivity and advance the internal market.

Building on the results of this consultation, together with the results of the consultation on internet speed and quality (see item above) the Commission will propose a revised EU telecoms framework in the course of the year.  To access the Commission’s report, click here.