Cable Europe has issued a statement that it describes as “an alternative view” to other reactions to Neelie Kroes and EC proposals for the new “Connected Continent” telecom package.
In it, Cable Europe chairman Matthias Kurth says that it would look for constructive and rational dialogue with the Commission, European Parliament and Council.
According to Kurth, “We see some benefits for stability and predictability in the EU telecom markets. The signal that there would be no fundamental changes to the framework and only market dominant players are subject to regulation ensures competition and infrastructure investment from all players. And there are elements in the proposal which could lead to less regulation while encouraging market forces.”
He added: “It would be favorable if we could reach a common understanding on the principles of net neutrality for all of Europe rather than fragmented legal skirmishes in the member states which would be a recipe for irritation and confusion. And as regards the open internet, we see a need for a regulatory approach that allows for fair agreements to be made between providers and a business environment that will ultimately allow room for new business models to be developed in the best interest of consumers. It’s important that fair burden sharing can be negotiated in an open and commercially minded manner.”
Kurth also said that the Recommendation sends a clear signal on supporting the need for further infrastructure-based competition and that Cable Europe was pleased that it recognises regulation of access prices affects all players in the market.
The Commission’s proposed package constitutes what it describes as the most ambitious plan in the 26 years of telecom market reform.
Included in the proposals are net neutrality, more certainty for investors, coordinated spectrum assignment, and end to roaming charges and simplifying EU rules for telecom operators.
EC president Jose Manuel Barroso said: “Further substantial progress towards a European single market for telecoms is essential for Europe’s strategic interests and economic progress. For the telecoms sector itself and for citizens who are frustrated that they do not have full and fair access to internet and mobile services.
VP Neelie Kroes, the digital agenda commissioner responsible for the package, said: “The legislation proposed today is great news for the future of mobile and internet in Europe. The European Commission says no to roaming premiums, yes to net neutrality, yes to investment, yes to new jobs. Fixing the telecoms sector is no longer about this one sector but about supporting the sustainable development of all sectors.”
