Ofcom unveils proposals for super-fast broadband Britain
Ofcom has unveiled new proposals to encourage the rollout of super-fast broadband across the UK.
The regulatory body has proposed that BT's fibre lines are opened up so that rival firms—such as Sky, TalkTalk and others- can provide their own services to consumers. According to Ofcom, BT would then be able to set prices for these new wholesale products to enable them to make a fair rate of return.
Ofcom are also proposing that BT offers other communications providers access to its underground ducts and overhead telegraph poles to build their own fibre networks more cost effectively.
Ofcom's initial conclusion is that broadband competition is effective in large parts of the country and for over 70% of the population there will be no regulations applied.
However, in the least competitive areas, where consumers only have access to copper-based broadband services from BT (around 14% of UK premises), Ofcom proposes some locally specific price controls to protect consumers against excessive prices.
Ofcom's Chief Executive, Ed Richards said: 'Super-fast broadband is starting to be a reality in the UK, with very significant advances in recent months in the speeds some providers are offering.
'Ofcom's proposed regulations provide a framework for continued investment, to deliver further roll-out, competition and innovation for consumers.'
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