February 25, 2019

The DCMS is seeking views on the Government’s draft Statement of Strategic Priorities (SSP) for telecommunications, the management of radio spectrum and post.

The power for the Government to designate an SSP was introduced in the Digital Economy Act 2017. This is the first time the Government is exercising this power. Once the SSP is formally designated, Ofcom must have regard to it when exercising its regulatory functions.

The Government has identified the following strategic priority areas to be covered by the SSP:

• world-class digital infrastructure: the Government’s commitment to world-class digital infrastructure for the UK, reflecting the conclusions of the Future Telecoms Infrastructure Review (FTIR);
• furthering the interests of telecoms consumers: the Government’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of telecoms consumers, including the vulnerable and less engaged, by ensuring they are better informed and protected;
• secure and resilient telecoms infrastructure: the Government’s commitment to ensuring the UK’s telecoms networks and services are secure and resilient; and
• postal services: the Government’s commitment to a universal postal service and need for industry and Ofcom to work together to secure the long-term sustainability of the sector.

The consultation closes on 27 March 2019. To access the consultation, click here.