31 Jul 2009
Telecoms regulator Ofcom is launching a consultation on the impact of next-generation networks on competition in the communications sector.
Next-generation networks aim to transport all information and services including voice, data and video on one IP-based network, replacing disparate networks used for each purpose.
BT has slowed plans to replace its Public Switched Telephone Network in its entirety with its 21st Century Network plan, with important implications for the market, according to Ofcom.
"The purpose of this consultation is to present our response to recent next-generation network developments, including the latest revisions by BT to its plans," the regulator said in a document on its web site.
Whereas under previous plans Ofcom would have had to completely overhaul regulations to ensure competition, now new, more subtle rules must be drawn up to ensure competition under BT's revised plans.
The regulator also wants to ensure consumers are not unduly effected in terms of service by the slower switch to next-generation networks.
It is essential that fibre is deployed more widely. The best way to do this is if the incumbent does it, simply because they have the access to poles, ducts and wayleaves.
If they won't then measures have to be taken to ensure it does happen, and very quickly.
The way the digital economy is growing if we don't get next gen pretty soon the UK will be out of the race. It is bad now, but in the future no country will want to engage with one with a slow response. In the same way there is a digital divide in the UK between rural and urban locations, a greater divide will grow between countries, and Korea, Singapore, Denmark et al are roaring away, bringing Oz et al up behind them. The UK is still in the narrowband mindset, which thinks next gen can be delivered through copper. It can't happen. Get real. Light the fibre, watch this country shine...
Posted by: cyberdoyle 31 Jul 2009
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